If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet wonderfully simple to prepare, the Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomato Garnish Recipe is an absolute winner. This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts, a luscious balsamic glaze infused with honey and garlic, and the creamy goodness of melted mozzarella cheese, all crowned with a fresh pop of cherry tomatoes and basil. It’s a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, savory, and fresh that will make any weeknight dinner feel like a special occasion. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in crafting layers of flavor and appealing textures. From the tender chicken breasts to the tangy balsamic glaze and creamy mozzarella, get ready to enjoy a dish that’s both simple to assemble and impressive to serve.
- Chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a juicy and tender base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder: Classic seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor and add depth with a hint of garlic.
- Balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic: Combined to create a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the chicken’s savory richness.
- Mozzarella cheese: Adds a creamy, melty topping that balances the balsamic’s sharpness with soothing softness.
- Optional cherry tomatoes and basil: Fresh and vibrant, these garnishes bring a burst of color and juicy brightness to finish the dish elegantly.
How to Make Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomato Garnish Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Season the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to a moderate temperature that will ensure even cooking without drying out the chicken breasts. While the oven warms, season your chicken with a drizzle of olive oil, plus salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning creates a flavorful foundation that will bloom when baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze
Next, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic to create a glaze that’s sweet, tangy, and aromatic. This glaze is the magic that transforms the chicken, giving it a glossy finish and layers of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 3: Spoon Glaze Over Chicken and Bake Covered
Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish and spoon the balsamic glaze generously over each piece, making sure every inch is coated. Cover the dish to lock in moisture, and bake until the chicken is perfectly cooked through and tender. This slow baking lets all the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella and Broil Briefly
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the cover and top each breast with fresh mozzarella slices. Pop it under the broiler for just a few minutes until the cheese melts to a bubbly, golden perfection. This step not only enriches the texture but also makes the dish look irresistible.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish by garnishing each breast with halved cherry tomatoes and torn fresh basil leaves if you like, adding freshness, color, and a delightful contrast to the rich balsamic and cheese. Then, serve immediately and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomato Garnish Recipe
Garnishes
Cherry tomatoes and fresh basil aren’t just pretty faces here—they provide a juicy pop and a bright herbal note that balance the balsamic’s sweetness and the mozzarella’s creaminess. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra balsamic reduction also elevates the final presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that don’t compete but rather complement the star flavors. Think light garlic roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, or even buttery steamed asparagus. Rice or couscous also soak up the balsamic glaze nicely, making your meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, plating the chicken right on top of a bed of sautéed greens with the cherry tomato garnish creates a rustic, yet elegant look. Hosting guests? Try serving the chicken sliced on a large platter, drizzled with extra glaze, and surrounded by colorful roasted vegetables for a feast for the eyes and palate alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from the Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomato Garnish Recipe store nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the garnish separate if possible to maintain freshness and texture when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts without the cherry tomato garnish to preserve their flavor and texture for up to two months. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven at a low temperature to prevent drying out and maintain the delicious balsamic glaze. Adding a splash of water or broth over the chicken before covering with foil helps keep it moist. Broil briefly again after reheating if you want to revive the melted mozzarella’s golden finish.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully, fresh provolone, fontina, or even gouda can add interesting flavors and still create that lovely gooey topping.
Is the balsamic glaze very sweet?
The honey balances out the acidity of the balsamic vinegar, creating a glaze that is pleasantly sweet and tangy rather than outright sweet. You can adjust the honey amount to suit your taste preference.
Can I prepare this recipe without an oven?
The oven is ideal for cooking the chicken evenly and melting the cheese. However, you could pan-sear the chicken and finish it under a stovetop lid, but the broiling step for the cheese is best done in an oven or a broiler.
What if I’m not a fan of cherry tomatoes?
You can substitute them with sliced roasted red peppers or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different but equally delicious garnish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The balsamic chicken maintains its flavor and texture well, making it a great meal prep option. Just be sure to add fresh garnishes right before serving to keep everything bright and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
The Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomato Garnish Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels gourmet but comes together with ease in your own kitchen. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to impress without stress, and its vibrant combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for more. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a beloved go-to recipe for your family and friends!
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Balsamic Chicken with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomato Garnish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Balsamic Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts baked in a flavorful balsamic glaze made with honey and garlic, topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a delightful finish. Optional cherry tomatoes and fresh basil add a fresh burst of color and taste, making this dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Balsamic Glaze
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Topping
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
Optional Garnish
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and season chicken. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season them evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will help build the base flavor and ensure a crispy exterior.
- Make the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture reduces by about half and becomes syrupy, around 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Spoon glaze on chicken and bake covered. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and spoon the balsamic glaze generously over each piece. Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add cheese and broil briefly. Remove the foil and top each chicken breast with mozzarella cheese. Place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with slight golden spots.
- Garnish and serve. If using, scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot for a delicious, savory meal.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, continue to simmer the balsamic mixture until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Chicken breasts can be pounded to even thickness before seasoning to ensure uniform cooking.
- Feel free to substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheese flavor.
- Be cautious when broiling; watch the chicken closely to prevent burning the cheese.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
