Description
A quick and easy recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction, topped with melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces/170 grams each)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and chopped thyme. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan until shimmering but not smoking.
- Place chicken breasts in the hot pan and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms (about 12 minutes total).
- Lower heat to medium and pour the balsamic glaze over the chicken. Spoon the glaze over the breasts as it bubbles and thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Place slices of mozzarella evenly over each chicken breast. Cover the pan with a lid or foil and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
If chicken breasts are thicker than 1 inch, pound lightly or finish cooking in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes after searing. For dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella or skip cheese and serve with avocado slices. The balsamic glaze can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast wit
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Protein: 30
Keywords: balsamic glazed chicken, mozzarella chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, weeknight meal, balsamic vinegar, chicken breasts, comfort food