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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella Recipe

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This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe features juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection with a flavorful balsamic tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The chicken is seasoned with herbs and garlic, combined with sweet and tangy balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, then baked with grape tomatoes and red onions. Topped with fresh mozzarella and fresh parsley, this dish is a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for serving with rice or pasta.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 pinch cracked pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic (5-6 cloves garlic), divided

Vegetables and Sauce

  • 2 cups grape tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, halved)
  • 1/4 red onion, peeled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)

Topping and Garnish

  • 3/4 cup fresh shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the chicken evenly and thoroughly.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Place the skinless chicken breasts into a baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over them, then season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of the minced garlic. Rub these seasonings all over each breast to coat them evenly. Arrange the halved grape tomatoes and sliced red onion around the chicken in the dish.
  3. Make the Balsamic Sauce: In a jug or small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and the remaining minced garlic until combined. Pour this mixture over the chicken breasts, carefully flipping each one to ensure they are evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
  4. Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes. The time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
  5. Add Cheese and Broil: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken breasts. Switch your oven to broil (grill) and broil the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve the balsamic baked chicken breasts with rice or pasta, drizzled with the pan juices for extra taste.

Notes

  • Adjust baking time according to the thickness of chicken breasts to ensure they are fully cooked.
  • Use grape or cherry tomatoes for best flavor and texture in the sauce.
  • For a dairy-free version, omit the mozzarella cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the cheese melted and warm.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://cozyplatter.com/balsamic-baked-chicken-breast-with-tomato-sauce-and-mozzarella-recipe/