If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor and feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is an absolute must-try. Juicy chicken breasts bathed in a tangy, sweet balsamic glaze, topped with ooey-gooey melted mozzarella, and the bright burst of cherry tomatoes make this meal a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for weekend guests, delivering a perfect balance of savory richness and fresh vibrancy that will keep you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish starts with simple, fresh ingredients that you might already have on hand. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from tender chicken providing protein to the balsamic glaze adding a sweet tang, and mozzarella bringing creamy indulgence. Even the cherry tomatoes contribute a pop of color and juiciness that elevates the entire plate.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless and skinless for even cooking and easy slicing.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps keep the chicken moist as it bakes.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder: Essential seasonings that create a flavorful base for the chicken.
- Balsamic vinegar: The star ingredient for the glaze; brings a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes.
- Honey: Sweetens the balsamic glaze and helps it caramelize beautifully while baking.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and richness to the glaze.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into a creamy topping that complements the glaze and chicken.
- Cherry tomatoes (optional): Freshens the dish with a burst of juiciness and a lovely pop of red.
- Fresh basil (optional): Finishing herb that adds a fragrant, herbaceous touch.
How to Make Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, pat your chicken breasts dry, then season them generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This straightforward seasoning lays the foundation for robust flavor and ensures your chicken will be savory and aromatic after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Gently simmer until the mixture thickens slightly into a syrupy glaze. This glaze is where the magic happens—its sweet and tangy qualities will coat the chicken and caramelize as it bakes, adding layers of irresistible flavor.
Step 3: Spoon the Glaze over the Chicken and Bake Covered
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the balsamic glaze over each piece, making sure they’re well coated. Cover the dish with foil to trap moisture and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The glaze will seep into the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella Cheese and Broil Briefly
Remove the foil and generously sprinkle slices of fresh mozzarella over each chicken breast. Switch your oven to broil and place the dish back inside for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese bubbles and turns golden. This step creates a luscious, melty topping that contrasts perfectly with the tangy glaze.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken and, if you love, sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for a refreshing herbal note. These bright additions add color, fresh flavor, and a touch of juiciness that elevate the entire dish to another level.
How to Serve Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the classic choice, but a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil also makes wonderful compliments. The goal is to add a finishing touch of freshness and color that contrasts with the rich balsamic glaze and melted cheese.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, simple sides that let the chicken shine. Think garlic roasted vegetables, a fluffy bed of couscous, or creamy mashed potatoes. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette also balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve the chicken on a rustic wooden board surrounded by wedges of lemon and a scattering of cherry tomatoes and basil. Another fun idea is to serve the chicken sliced over a fresh spinach salad or a bowl of herbed quinoa, allowing the balsamic glaze to double as a dressing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are a blessing here! Store any uneaten chicken, along with the glaze, in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats well, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken without the cheese topping (to preserve texture) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a microwave or oven to preserve moisture. Adding a splash of water or extra balsamic vinegar before heating can help maintain that luscious glaze and keep the chicken from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully with its mild flavor, fresh goat cheese or provolone can add interesting twists. Just keep in mind their different melting properties and flavor intensity when choosing alternatives.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use kosher salt and check that your balsamic vinegar contains no gluten additives.
Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Definitely. The balsamic glaze can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm it up slightly before spooning over the chicken to ease spreading.
What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from drying out?
Covering the chicken with foil during baking is key to locking in moistness. Also, try not to overbake; chicken breasts are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which keeps them juicy and tender.
Can I make this recipe without cherry tomatoes?
Yes, the cherry tomatoes are optional but highly recommended for freshness and color. You could substitute with roasted red peppers or omit them altogether if you prefer a simpler presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes whenever I want something that’s elegant, comforting, and surprisingly easy. The balance of savory chicken, sweet and tangy glaze, and creamy cheese topped with bursts of tomato is just irresistible. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do — it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation too!
Print
Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Balsamic Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts baked in a flavorful balsamic glaze infused with honey and garlic, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. The dish offers a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors, making it an easy and elegant meal for any night. Optional cherry tomatoes and fresh basil add a burst of freshness and color.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Balsamic Glaze
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Topping and Garnish
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Season Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and brush them with olive oil. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to ensure even flavor.
- Make Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Simmer the mixture gently, allowing it to reduce by about half, until it thickens into a glaze, approximately 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Bake Chicken with Glaze: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon a generous amount of the prepared balsamic glaze over each piece, making sure they are well coated. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add Cheese and Broil: Remove the foil and evenly distribute mozzarella cheese over the chicken breasts. Optionally add halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken for added flavor and color. Set the oven to broil and place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and starts to bubble. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot. The balsamic glaze provides a tangy sweetness that complements the juicy chicken and melted mozzarella wonderfully.
Notes
- Ensure to watch the broiling step closely to prevent the mozzarella from burning.
- Chicken breasts can be flattened slightly for more even cooking if desired.
- The balsamic glaze can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
