Balsamic Chicken Breast with Mozzarella is a simple and tasty dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with melted mozzarella and a tangy balsamic glaze. The combination of creamy cheese and the sweet, slightly sharp balsamic makes for a really satisfying mix of flavors. It’s one of those meals that feels special but is easy enough for any weeknight.
I love making this because it doesn’t take much time, but it always feels like a treat. The balsamic glaze adds a little zing, and when the mozzarella melts over the warm chicken, it’s just perfect. Sometimes, I drizzle a little extra balsamic on top before serving—it’s my little secret to brighten up each bite.
My favorite way to serve this is alongside some roasted veggies or a fresh green salad to keep things light and fresh. It’s also great with rice or crusty bread to soak up the tasty balsamic sauce. This dish always gets compliments from family and friends, and I find myself coming back to it whenever I want something quick, easy, and full of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts makes this dish quick to cook. If you want juicier meat, try bone-in breasts or use chicken thighs for more flavor and moistness.
Balsamic vinegar: It adds a nice tang and sweetness. If you don’t have balsamic, a mix of red wine vinegar and a small amount of honey can work as a substitute.
Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully here. You can swap it for provolone or fontina if you want a stronger cheese taste, or use shredded mozzarella for convenience.
Cherry tomatoes: These burst and add freshness. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, halved grape or regular tomatoes work fine—just be careful not to add too much juice.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and Mozzarella Perfectly Melted?
To keep the chicken juicy and get that perfect mozzarella melt, follow these tips:
- Season chicken well with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Bake chicken first until nearly cooked (160°F internal temp). This way, it stays moist and avoids drying out.
- Adding mozzarella at the end and baking for only 5-7 minutes lets it melt nicely without overcooking the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—it’s the easiest way to avoid guesswork.
- Don’t cover the dish while baking so the tomatoes roast down and the balsamic reduces slightly, making a tasty glaze.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe baking dish – I like it because it goes from prep to oven, keeping everything simple and in one place.
- Whisk or fork – helps you mix the balsamic, oil, and seasonings smoothly.
- Meat thermometer – ensures your chicken reaches a safe and juicy temperature with no guesswork.
- Cooking tongs or a spoon – makes it easy to arrange chicken and tomatoes without spilling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheesy twist that melts just as well.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms or spinach before baking for added veggies and flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chili for some heat if you like spicy dishes.
- Use balsamic glaze instead of vinegar to get an even sweeter, richer flavor with a shiny finish.
Balsamic Chicken Breast with Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3/4 cup shredded or sliced fresh mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes to bake, making a total of roughly 35-40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Make the Balsamic Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Season and Arrange Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the baking dish.
4. Add Tomatoes and Balsamic:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and on top of the chicken. Pour the balsamic mixture evenly over everything.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is almost cooked through (internal temperature about 160°F or 71°C).
6. Add Mozzarella and Finish Baking:
Remove the dish from the oven. Spoon some pan juices and tomatoes over each chicken breast. Top each piece with mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a bright, fresh touch. Serve warm, paired with a salad, roasted veggies, or crusty bread to enjoy the tasty balsamic sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.
Can I Substitute the Mozzarella Cheese?
Absolutely! Provolone, fontina, or even a mild cheddar can work well as alternatives if you want a different flavor while still achieving a nice melt.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken moist and the cheese melty.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, prepare the chicken and balsamic mixture ahead, but add the cheese just before baking to ensure it melts perfectly. This helps keep the dish fresh and delicious when serving.