why make this recipe
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Balsamic Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese is a delightful dish that brings together wonderful flavors in a simple way. This recipe offers juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection and smothered in a tangy balsamic sauce, complemented by sweet cherry tomatoes and gooey mozzarella cheese. It is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties.
how to make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast With Balsamic Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese
Ingredients:
- 4 skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch cracked pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 cups grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, fresh shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, or basil, to garnish
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 220°C | 430°F. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Season with oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Rub the seasoning all over each chicken breast. Arrange the tomatoes and red onion around the chicken in the dish.
In a jug, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and remaining garlic to combine. Pour this mixture over the chicken breasts, flipping each breast in the sauce to coat evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until no longer pink in the middle. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and broil (or grill) for 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden. Garnish with parsley, and serve with rice or pasta drizzled with pan juices.
how to serve Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast With Balsamic Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese
For the best experience, serve this dish hot right out of the oven. Pair it with a side of rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Drizzle the delicious pan juices over your side dishes for extra flavor. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can enhance the presentation and taste even more.
how to store Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast With Balsamic Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool down to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it. This dish can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
tips to make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast With Balsamic Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella Cheese
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture for a few hours or overnight before baking.
- Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for even cooking. You can pound them gently to achieve this.
- If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
variation
For a twist on this recipe, try adding spinach or other vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You can also switch up the cheese with Parmesan or feta for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before baking to ensure even cooking.
2. How can I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 75°C | 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check.
3. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes. You can layer everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch cracked pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic divided
- 2 cups grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, fresh shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, or basil, to garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F).
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Season with oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Rub the seasoning all over each chicken breast.
- Arrange the tomatoes and red onion around the chicken in the dish.
Cooking
- In a jug, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and remaining garlic to combine.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken breasts, flipping each breast in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until no longer pink in the middle.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and broil (or grill) for 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serving
- Garnish with parsley and serve with rice or pasta drizzled with pan juices.