Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Toppings
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced)
- 2 medium Roma tomatoes (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 1/2 cup fresh basil (cut into ribbons)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large baking dish ensuring they have space between each piece. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season evenly with sea salt and black pepper.
- Bake the chicken: Bake the chicken breasts in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 150 degrees F (65 degrees C), ensuring they are partially cooked before adding toppings.
- Add toppings and continue baking: Remove the baking dish from the oven and top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese and thin slices of Roma tomatoes. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) for fully cooked chicken and the cheese is melted.
- Rest and garnish: Let the baked chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken and finish by sprinkling fresh basil ribbons on top before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely but remains juicy.
- Balsamic glaze adds sweetness and acidity; if unavailable, reduce balsamic vinegar on stovetop until thickened.
- Fresh mozzarella works best for melting; avoid pre-shredded cheese.
- Resting the chicken after baking allows juices to redistribute for a tender result.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
