Description
Golden-seared chicken breasts bathed in sweet-tangy balsamic glaze, surrounded by juicy cherry tomatoes, topped with bubbling mozzarella cheese. Restaurant-quality meal ready in 40 minutes.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic until combined.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. You’re creating a flavorful crust, not cooking through.
5. Transfer seared chicken to prepared baking dish. Pour balsamic glaze over top, coating each piece. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
6. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until chicken is almost cooked through (about 160°F internal temperature).
7. Remove dish from oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over each chicken breast. Return to oven for 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and chicken reaches 165°F.
8. Let chicken rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm with pan juices.
Notes
Don’t skip the searing step – it locks in moisture and adds flavor.
Make sure oven is fully preheated for best results.
Chicken should reach 165°F internal temperature.
Use chicken breasts of similar thickness for even cooking.
Turn on broiler for last 2-3 minutes for extra crispy cheese.
Make extra balsamic glaze to drizzle fresh over finished dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian