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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast Recipe – Easy Keto Dinner with Mozzarella

balsamic baked chicken breast - featured image

Juicy chicken breasts are baked in a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze and topped with bubbling mozzarella cheese for a comforting, keto-friendly dinner. This one-pan recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • A handful of fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning to make the glaze.
  3. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  4. Optional: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
  5. Pour the balsamic glaze evenly over the chicken breasts, turning to coat.
  6. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken (optional).
  7. Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part.
  8. Remove from oven, spoon pan juices over each chicken breast, and top each with about 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella.
  9. Return to oven for 5-7 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Searing the chicken before baking adds extra flavor and color. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. For dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella or omit cheese. Leftovers keep well for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day. Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, keto chicken, baked chicken breast, mozzarella chicken, easy dinner, low carb, gluten free, weeknight meal, Italian chicken, one pan