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Balsamic Baked Chicken with Mozzarella – Juicy, Tangy & Melt-in-Your-Mouth Delicious

This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is a flavor-packed dinner that’s both simple and sophisticated. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a rich balsamic glaze, baked to perfection, and topped with gooey melted mozzarella. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy nights, romantic dinners, or impressing guests without the fuss. Serve it with roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to wow.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-inspired / Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking dish (snug-fitting)
  • Small saucepan (for glaze)
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Glaze:

  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp dried thyme

For the Veggies & Cheese:

  • 1 pint grape tomatoes
  • 1 medium red onion, sliced
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced or shredded)
  • Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan, fresh basil, lemon zest

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and basil.
  • Prepare glaze: In a saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, olive oil, thyme, and Dijon (if using). Simmer until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
  • Toss tomatoes and onions in a spoonful of glaze.
  • Arrange chicken in a snug baking dish. Scatter veggies around. Pour remaining glaze over everything.
  • Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
  • Add mozzarella during the last 5–10 minutes of baking. Optional: broil for 1–2 minutes for golden top.
  • Garnish with fresh basil, lemon zest, and spoon pan juices over chicken before serving.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Assemble without cheese and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days. Freeze chicken (without cheese) up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Oven or air fryer preferred. Add fresh cheese after reheating.
  • Swap it up: Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or vegan cheese for dairy-free.
  • Pairings: Garlic mashed potatoes, rice, crusty bread, sautéed greens, or arugula salad.
Keyword baked chicken breasts, basil balsamic chicken, Gluten-Free, low-carb option, mozzarella chicken, one-pan meal, weeknight dinner