Description
Golden Italian Chicken with Mozzarella, Cherry Tomatoes, Fresh Basil & Balsamic Glaze is a simple, flavour-packed dinner featuring golden-seared chicken breasts topped with melted fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil and a glossy balsamic glaze. It comes together in about 35 minutes and makes an easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season both sides with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic around the chicken. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to begin softening.
4. Place slices of fresh mozzarella over each chicken breast. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the mozzarella is melted and bubbling.
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and scatter the fresh basil leaves over the chicken and roasted cherry tomatoes.
7. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken, melted mozzarella and tomatoes.
8. Serve immediately with the roasted cherry tomatoes and extra fresh basil. Spoon some of the pan juices over each chicken breast before serving.
Notes
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help it develop a golden exterior during searing.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet so the chicken has enough room to sear properly.
Chicken breasts can vary in thickness, so use the internal temperature as your guide.
Add the fresh basil after baking so it stays fragrant and fresh.
Add the balsamic glaze just before serving for a glossy, sweet-tangy finish.
The recipe is written for boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
If using chicken thighs or another cut, cooking time may vary depending on size and thickness.
Fresh mozzarella is recommended for the soft, melted topping.
If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the chicken and tomatoes to a suitable baking dish before adding the mozzarella.
Serve with a simple salad, roasted vegetables or your favourite side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop & Oven
- Cuisine: Italian