Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

When it comes to weeknight dinners that balance simplicity, elegance, and bold flavors, few dishes compare to balsamic baked chicken breast with mozzarella cheese. This recipe takes the everyday chicken breast and elevates it with the sweet tang of balsamic glaze, juicy tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a golden blanket of melted mozzarella. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re dining in a cozy Italian trattoria—without leaving your kitchen.

In this article, you’ll learn not just how to make this mouthwatering dish, but also the secrets to keeping chicken breasts tender and juicy, variations you can try, and why this recipe works so well for busy families, meal prepping, or even a casual dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy but impressive: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
• Family-friendly: The flavors are balanced—sweet, savory, and cheesy—making it appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Healthy yet comforting: Lean chicken breast paired with antioxidant-rich tomatoes and calcium-packed mozzarella delivers both nutrition and indulgence.
• Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or even fresh salad depending on your mood.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of everything required for your balsamic baked chicken breast with mozzarella cheese:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (oregano, thyme, basil blend)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or slices of fresh mozzarella)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: extra drizzle of balsamic glaze, fresh parsley, or grated Parmesan cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps the seasonings stick and ensures even browning. Season each breast generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Sear for Extra Flavor

Although you can bake the chicken directly, searing the breasts in a skillet first adds a golden crust and locks in flavor. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat, then sear each breast for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Transfer to the baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Balsamic Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Pour in balsamic vinegar and honey, stirring until slightly thickened (around 2–3 minutes). Add the halved cherry tomatoes and let them soften. This creates a luscious sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Pour the balsamic-tomato mixture over the chicken in the baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Uncover the dish, sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over each chicken breast, and return to the oven. Bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a fragrant finish. For an extra touch, drizzle more balsamic glaze before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Chicken Breast

• Don’t skip searing: It adds depth of flavor and helps the chicken stay juicy.
• Check doneness with a thermometer: This ensures you never overcook or undercook your chicken.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to sit for 5 minutes before serving redistributes juices for maximum tenderness.
• Use fresh mozzarella if possible: It melts into creamy pockets of cheesy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are some of the best sides to pair with it:

1. Pasta: Toss spaghetti or penne with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan for a simple complement.
2. Rice or quinoa: Perfect for soaking up the balsamic glaze.
3. Roasted vegetables: Zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers roast beautifully alongside the chicken.
4. Green salad: A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese.
5. Garlic bread: Because every saucy chicken dish deserves some crusty bread for dipping.

Variations to Try

• Caprese Style: Add slices of fresh tomato beneath the mozzarella for a true Caprese-inspired dish.
• Mushroom Twist: Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy, savory boost.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or grains.
• Mediterranean Flavor: Sprinkle olives and artichokes over the chicken before baking.

Why Balsamic and Mozzarella Work So Well Together

The secret to this dish lies in contrast and harmony:

• The balsamic glaze brings tangy sweetness that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
• Mozzarella cheese adds creaminess and a salty bite that balances the acidity of tomatoes and vinegar.
• Fresh herbs like basil brighten the whole dish, making each bite layered and exciting.

This balance of flavors is what makes the recipe so addictive—you’ll want to make it over and over again.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it works for meal prep.

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, or microwave in short bursts.
• Freeze: Bake the chicken without the cheese topping, then freeze in freezer-safe bags. Add mozzarella after reheating for the best texture.

Pro tip: Slice the chicken and serve it cold over salads for an easy lunch the next day.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate, for 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese)

• Calories: 330
• Protein: 39g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 7g

This makes it a fantastic high-protein meal that’s light on carbs but still full of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Balsamic baked chicken breast with mozzarella cheese is the kind of recipe that proves healthy meals don’t have to be boring. With its tangy balsamic glaze, juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and melty mozzarella, it delivers comfort and freshness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this dish checks every box—easy, delicious, and nourishing.

So next time you’re in the mood for something that feels both light and indulgent, skip takeout and try this baked chicken. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish straight from your oven.