Description
A juicy and flavorful baked chicken breast recipe featuring a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, melted mozzarella cheese, fresh tomatoes, and basil. This dish is elegant yet easy, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1 Roma tomato, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), olive oil, minced garlic, and dried Italian herbs to create the marinade.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place chicken in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Bake chicken uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
- Remove from oven. Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese and a slice of tomato.
- Return to oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an optional drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use aged balsamic vinegar.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to prevent drying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Sugar: Approximately 7-10g
- Sodium: Approximately 200-300mg
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 3-5g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 7-10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
- Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 90-100mg