Balsamic Bliss Baked Chicken with Mozzarella
Table of Contents
- Balsamic Bliss: An Easy Chicken Recipe You'll Adore
- Let's Talk Ingredients and Gear for Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella!
- Cooking Method: Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Bliss
- Recipe Notes: Your Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Success Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 📝 Recipe Card
Balsamic Bliss: An Easy Chicken Recipe You'll Adore
Ever get that craving for something dead easy but feels fancy? Well, let me tell you about my Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella .
It's a hug in food form. Plus it's a Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Balsamic that will get you eating healthy.
Ciao Bella! An Italian Inspiration
This recipe's got that whole rustic Italian vibe. I'm talking sun-drenched villas and the smell of basil. Italian Baked Chicken Breast is just a flavour bomb waiting to happen.
The Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast brings all the flavour. The recipe is also easy, it takes about an hour. In that time, you get enough for four very happy people.
Quick, Healthy, and Oh-So-Good
I swear, this is one of the best Weeknight Chicken Dinner Recipes . It's packed with protein and that balsamic vinegar actually has some health benefits.
The Easy Balsamic Chicken Recipe is also perfect for a casual dinner party. Honestly, what makes this recipe special is its simplicity.
You know? It takes basic ingredients and turns them into something amazing. Let's dive into what you'll need to make this magic happen!
What You'll Need: Gathering Your Goodies
To start, you'll need balsamic vinegar, obviously. It's about ¼ cup. Then grab 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 minced garlic cloves.
Don't forget 1 tablespoon of brown sugar! Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper for that oomph .
You know, the usual suspects for flavour.
Next up is the star of the show! 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. About 6-8 oz each should do it.
Chicken Breast with Balsamic Vinegar and Mozzarella really is so easy. This step will transform everything! Finally, get 4 oz of fresh mozzarella.
And a bit of fresh basil, chopped, if you are feeling fancy. That's all there is to it! So simple, right?
Let's Talk Ingredients and Gear for Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella!
Right, so you wanna make this banging Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella ? Ace! Don't worry, you likely have most of this stuff in your kitchen already.
I've been there, staring into the abyss of my fridge, hoping a gourmet meal magically appears. Sadly, doesn't happen. This Easy Balsamic Chicken Recipe won't break the bank.
Let's dive in!
Main Ingredients Breakdown
Here's the lowdown. I aim to cook up some delicious and Quick Chicken Breast Recipes .
- Balsamic Vinegar: ¼ cup (60 ml) . Go for decent quality. It makes a difference. Trust me. Think less "cheap stuff for salads" and more "something you'd happily drizzle".
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Extra virgin is best for flavour.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is key here. That jarred stuff just doesn't have the same zing.
- Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Light or dark, doesn't hugely matter. Adds a nice sweetness.
- Dried Italian Herbs: 1 teaspoon . That mixed herb blend everyone has lurking at the back of their spice rack.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon .
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon . Freshly ground, if you can!
- Chicken Breasts: 4 (around 6-8 oz / 170-225g each). Boneless, skinless. Flatten them if they're super chunky. They cook better that way!
- Fresh Mozzarella: 4 oz (115g) , sliced. Honestly, this Mozzarella Bake is incredible, and you really need good cheese.
- Fresh Basil: 2 tablespoons , chopped. Optional, but it adds a gorgeous pop of freshness.
Seasoning Secrets and Flavour Boosters
Alright, spice cupboard raid time! The Italian herbs are doing a lot of heavy lifting here, but don't be afraid to chuck in a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of a kick.
A dash of garlic powder can really boost that allium flavour. If you're feeling fancy, a little squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up.
And if you don't have Italian herbs? A mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme works a treat! You can get creative to make a delicious Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast .
Equipment Essentials
You don't need a load of fancy kit. For this Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Balsamic , you're good with these:
- Baking Dish: A 9x13 inch / 23x33cm one is ideal.
- Small Bowl: For the marinade.
- Whisk: Or a fork, whatever you have.
- Meat Thermometer: Optional , but seriously handy for knowing when the chicken is done. You want 165° F ( 74° C) .
- A fork or pair of tongs
- Some kind of chopping surface.
Can't find a whisk? Use a fork. No baking dish? Use a frying pan. We're all about improvising, yeah?. And you can look forward to a wonderful Balsamic Chicken With Mozzarella on the table, this is one of the most popular Weeknight Chicken Dinner Recipes for a reason!.
Alright, let's get cracking on Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese… a classic, innit? Think comfort food meets sophisticated flavour a bit like Hugh Grant in a rom-com, charming and universally appealing.
Cooking Method: Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Bliss
This isn't just some Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Balsamic . It's Balsamic Bliss Baked Chicken with Mozzarella , my friend! It transforms simple chicken breasts into a flavour explosion.
You end up with tender, juicy chicken marinated in a tangy sweet Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast , then baked to perfection under a blanket of melted mozzarella.
Think Italian trattoria meets easy weeknight dinner. Perfect for impressing your mates, or just treating yourself.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential mise en place: Grab your 4 chicken breasts (around 6-8 oz each), ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon Italian herbs, salt and pepper, 4 oz mozzarella and some basil. Honestly, having everything measured out before you start makes life so much easier!
- Time saving organization tips: Marinate that chicken before you even think about turning on the oven. Thirty minutes minimum, but a couple of hours is even better. Pop it in a ziplock bag with the marinade, squish it around, and stick it in the fridge. Done!
- Safety reminders: Don't forget to wash your hands after handling raw chicken! And make sure your oven is preheated to 400° F ( 200° C) .
step-by-step Process: The Magic Happens
- Whisk together ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
- Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) .
- Bake the chicken for 20- 25 minutes , until it hits 165° F ( 74° C) internally. Use a meat thermometer, yeah?
- Top each breast with mozzarella slices.
- Broil for 1- 2 minutes , or until the cheese is melty and bubbly. Watch it closely, mind!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast
- Don't overcook that chicken! It's the cardinal sin of Easy Balsamic Chicken Recipe . Use a meat thermometer.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly. Honestly, a little kitchen mallet does the trick.
- This Chicken Breast with Balsamic Vinegar and Mozzarella tastes great leftover. Make a batch on Sunday for Weeknight Chicken Dinner Recipes . You know, a Quick Chicken Breast Recipes for the busy folks!
So there you have it the most delicious and foolproof Balsamic Chicken With Mozzarella . This Italian Baked Chicken Breast is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
Go on, give it a go and let me know what you think!
Recipe Notes: Your Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Success Guide
Honestly, this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella recipe is pretty foolproof. It’s one of my Quick Chicken Breast Recipes go-tos.
Still, let's cover a few key things to guarantee a stellar dinner! We will go over serving, storing, variations and nutrition notes.
I am certain that you will love it and its one of the best Weeknight Chicken Dinner Recipes
Serving Suggestions: Make it Look Fancy!
Presentation matters, you know? For a classic plating, slice the Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast and fan it out on the plate.
Think restaurant vibes. A sprig of basil adds a pop of colour.
For sides, roasted asparagus is always a winner. A simple green salad works too! Pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
The acidity cuts through the richness of the Mozzarella Bake , and it just feels a bit fancy.
Storage Tips: For Leftover Goodness
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the chicken cool completely. Then, pop it in an airtight container. Fridge life is about 3-4 days.
Freezing isn't ideal, honestly. The mozzarella can get a bit weird. But if you must , wrap each breast individually in cling film before freezing.
Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.
Variations: Let’s Get Creative!
Fancy a little spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes in the marinade works wonders. Trust me, it elevates the Easy Balsamic Chicken Recipe !
Want to make it dairy-free? Use a good quality dairy-free mozzarella alternative. I’ve tried a few, and some are surprisingly good.
This way you can make it a Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast that anyone can enjoy!
Nutrition Basics: Guilt Free Deliciousness
Each serving is estimated around 350 calories. It's packed with protein (about 45g) and moderate in fat (around 15g). The carbohydrates are relatively low (about 10g).
Chicken is a great source of lean protein. Balsamic vinegar may help with blood sugar control. Just remember, this is a simplified version!
Alright, my friend, that's the lowdown! Go forth and create some amazing Italian Baked Chicken Breast ! I am sure that you will love this amazing Chicken Breast with Balsamic Vinegar and Mozzarella I cannot wait to hear about your Balsamic Chicken With Mozzarella adventures.
Enjoy!.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavour in this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella recipe?
For the most flavour, aim to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Just like a good cup of tea, the longer it sits, the stronger the flavour!
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with recipe?
Absolutely! Make sure to thaw the chicken breasts completely before marinating. Pat them dry with a paper towel after thawing. This helps the marinade adhere better and ensures even cooking. Nobody wants a soggy bottom, especially not on chicken!
What's the best way to store leftovers of Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Just remember, like a good Sunday roast, it's best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can still be a treat!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can definitely prep this dish in advance! Marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Then, when you're ready to cook, simply preheat the oven and bake. It is similar to batch cooking, making life that much easier for those busy weeknights!
I'm trying to watch my calories - are there any modifications I can make to this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with recipe to make it healthier?
You can certainly lighten it up a bit! Use part skim mozzarella or even skip the cheese altogether for a lower fat option. You could also swap the brown sugar in the marinade for a calorie free sweetener. Serving with a generous portion of green vegetables instead of starchy sides is another win.
What can I serve with this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella for a complete meal?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Roasted asparagus or broccoli are always a good choice. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken. For something heartier, try serving it with quinoa or couscous. Perhaps even a cheeky glass of wine? Cheers!
Balsamic Bliss Baked Chicken With Mozzarella
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 0g |