Description
This Balsamic Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy balsamic vinegar and honey reduction. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese and optionally garnished with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, this dish is a flavorful and elegant meal perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The chicken is baked and briefly broiled to achieve a lovely finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Balsamic Glaze
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Topping and Garnish
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven and season chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and rub them with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Make balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the mixture thickens and reduces by about half, forming a glaze.
- Spoon glaze on chicken and bake covered: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and spoon the balsamic glaze evenly over each breast. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Add cheese, broil briefly: Remove the foil and place mozzarella slices on top of each chicken breast. Switch the oven to broil and cook uncovered for about 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally, scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken for added freshness and color. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different flavor.
- For a thicker glaze, simmer the balsamic mixture a bit longer, but be careful not to burn it.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a light salad.
- Keep an eye on the chicken while broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
