Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese

If you’re looking for a dish that feels gourmet but is incredibly easy to prepare, this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese hits all the right notes.

With juicy, tender chicken baked in a tangy balsamic glaze and topped with gooey melted mozzarella, it’s a beautiful balance of flavors that’s perfect for any night of the week.

This dish brings together bold ingredients in a way that’s wholesome, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love the Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Juicy baked chicken breast topped with melted mozzarella cheese and herbs in a rich balsamic glaze with tomatoes
  • Elegant yet simple – perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
  • Bold flavors – tangy balsamic glaze with rich cheese
  • Quick to prep – under 15 minutes of active time
  • Customizable – add tomatoes, basil, or veggies
  • Family favorite – kid- and guest-approved

you can also read our Chicken Cheez: Crispy, Cheesy, and Totally Irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added depth)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Chicken breasts topped with shredded mozzarella, surrounded by cherry tomatoes and red onions in a balsamic marinade

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with foil for easy cleanup. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Rub both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Place in the baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard (if using), and minced garlic. Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes until the mixture reduces by about half and thickens slightly. Stir often.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Spoon a generous amount of the balsamic glaze over each chicken breast. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes until chicken is nearly cooked through (internal temp of 160°F).

Step 5: Add Cheese & Broil

Remove foil, top each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella and optional cherry tomatoes. Return to the oven and broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle any extra glaze from the pan on top and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips for the Best Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

  • Don’t overreduce the glaze – it thickens more as it cools
  • Use fresh mozzarella for extra creaminess
  • Add tomatoes during the final bake for a burst of freshness
  • Always rest the chicken to lock in juices
  • Try a meat thermometer – 165°F is your goal

What to Serve with It

  • Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
  • Steamed or roasted green beans
  • A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Quinoa or brown rice to soak up the sauce
  • Buttered pasta or cauliflower mash for low-carb

Recipe Variations of Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Add Veggies

Tuck asparagus, spinach, or zucchini in the pan while baking.

Caprese-Style

Top with fresh sliced tomato and basil before adding the cheese.

Balsamic Mushroom Sauce

Stir in sautéed mushrooms to the glaze for a savory twist.

Dairy-Free Version

Skip the cheese or use a plant-based mozzarella substitute.

Juicy baked chicken breast topped with melted mozzarella cheese and herbs in a rich balsamic glaze with tomatoes

Balsamic Chicken Recipe

Juicy baked chicken breasts glazed in a homemade balsamic reduction, topped with bubbling mozzarella and fresh herbs. Elegant, easy, and totally crave-worthy.
Whip up this flavorful baked chicken recipe tonight—you won’t believe how easy it is to make something this delicious.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course main dish
Cuisine American, Italian-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 360 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken breasts
  • Olive oil salt, pepper, garlic powder
  • Balsamic vinegar honey, garlic
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Optional: cherry tomatoes basil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven and season chicken
  • Make balsamic glaze
  • Spoon glaze on chicken and bake covered
  • Add cheese, broil briefly
  • Garnish and serve

Notes

Nutrition (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 360
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbs: 7g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Sodium: 540mg
Keyword Balsamic Baked Chicken

FAQs – Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work well. Reduce bake time slightly.

Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?

You can, but making it fresh offers more control over flavor and sweetness.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.

How do I make it gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if your balsamic and mustard are certified gluten-free.

Can I skip the broiling step?

You can, but broiling helps brown and melt the cheese beautifully. Just bake a few extra minutes if skipping.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella is the ultimate mix of tangy, savory, and cheesy. It feels indulgent, yet it’s incredibly easy to prepare with clean, simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving a crowd or planning a quiet night in, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

For morechicken recipes you can see our Cheesy Chicken Bake – A Comforting, Family-Friendly Favorite

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