Balsamic Chicken Breast with Mozzarella is a simple and tasty dish that features juicy chicken breasts topped with melty mozzarella cheese and a tangy balsamic glaze. The balsamic adds a sweet and slightly sharp flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy mozzarella, making every bite rich and satisfying.
I love making this dish when I want something quick but still special. It’s one of those meals that looks like you’ve spent a long time preparing, but it comes together easily. A tip I’ve found useful is to let the chicken rest a bit after cooking, so it stays nice and juicy when you add the cheese on top.
My favorite way to serve this balsamic chicken is alongside a fresh salad or some roasted veggies. It feels like a light yet filling meal that’s great for any night of the week. Plus, whenever I make it, guests always ask for the recipe because they love the combination of tangy balsamic and gooey cheese—it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, use thighs for a richer flavor and more moisture. Just adjust cooking time slightly.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the dish its tangy sweetness. You can substitute with a balsamic glaze or reduce regular balsamic vinegar down to a syrup for extra thickness.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella works best for meltiness and creaminess. If unavailable, try provolone or fontina, but avoid hard cheeses to keep that soft texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: They roast nicely and add juiciness. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, chopped regular tomatoes or grape tomatoes work well too.
Italian Seasoning & Basil: A classic combo that brings herbs to the dish. Fresh basil at the end adds brightness, but dried basil or parsley can be alternatives.
How Do You Keep Chicken Breast Juicy and Tender?
Chicken breast can dry out easily if overcooked, so here are a few tips to keep it juicy:
- Pat the chicken dry and season before cooking to help form a nice crust.
- Use the balsamic marinade—both for flavor and moisture.
- Bake at a high temperature (400°F) to cook it quickly without drying out.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows juices to redistribute, making each bite moist.
- Adding the mozzarella at the end keeps it creamy without drying out the chicken further.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – I recommend a medium-sized one that fits your chicken breasts comfortably for even cooking.
- Mixing bowl – handy for stirring the marinade ingredients so they’re well combined.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check when the chicken reaches a safe, juicy 165°F.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing or tearing mozzarella and chopping basil or other herbs.
- Oven mitts – for safety when handling hot dishes from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add sliced sun-dried tomatoes or olives around the chicken for extra depth and saltiness.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to give it a little heat or smoky flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or oregano instead of Italian seasoning for a different aromatic touch.
- Top with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze after baking for an extra layer of sweetness and shine.
Balsamic Chicken Breast with Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Topping and Garnish:
- 6 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or torn
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, allocate around 35-40 minutes including resting time to enjoy your delicious balsamic chicken with melty mozzarella and roasted tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Marinade:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish that can fit the chicken breasts nicely. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken and Arrange Tomatoes:
Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Pour about half of the marinade over the chicken, turning each breast to coat it well. Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the chicken, then drizzle the remaining marinade over them.
3. Bake the Chicken:
Bake the dish uncovered in the oven for about 20 minutes. This will start cooking the chicken perfectly and roast the tomatoes until soft and flavorful.
4. Add Mozzarella and Finish Baking:
Take the baking dish out of the oven. Place slices or torn pieces of fresh mozzarella over each chicken breast. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the mozzarella has melted and turned slightly golden.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the thinly sliced fresh basil over the chicken and tomatoes. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes – this helps keep it juicy. Serve hot with the roasted cherry tomatoes and their tasty balsamic glaze.
Enjoy your meal! This easy and tasty balsamic chicken breast with mozzarella is a wonderful dish that combines tangy, savory, and creamy flavors in every bite.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw them before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for quicker defrosting. Pat dry before marinating to ensure better flavor absorption and even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Simply omit the mozzarella or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well. You could also use sliced avocado on top after baking for creaminess without dairy.
Is It Okay to Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours before baking for deeper flavor. However, add the mozzarella just before baking to keep it fresh and melty. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2-3 days.
What Should I Serve with Balsamic Chicken Breast with Mozzarella?
This dish goes great with a light side like roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or cooked grains such as rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious balsamic glaze.