Baked Fresh Mozzarella and Balsamic Chicken
Crispy breadcrumb-coated chicken breasts topped with fresh tomato, melted mozzarella, and balsamic vinegar, then finished under the broiler. Italian herbs and garlic season both the coating and final dish for a simple, elegant weeknight protein with restaurant-quality presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 fresh tomato, sliced
- 1 ball fresh mozzarella
- 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- salt, to taste(optional)
- pepper, to taste(optional)
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbspanko breadcrumbs1:1texture changeadds gluten
creates crunchier crust
- 1 egg, beaten with water
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- 2
Grease an 8x8 casserole dish and set aside.
- 3
Combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, onion powder, and breadcrumbs in a bowl.
- 4
Dip each chicken breast in the egg and water mixture, then coat thoroughly in the seasoning and breadcrumb mixture.
- 5
Place coated chicken in the casserole dish and bake for 25 minutes.
- 6
Remove chicken from oven and switch oven to broil setting.
- 7
Transfer chicken to a piece of foil and top with sliced tomato, fresh mozzarella, and balsamic vinegar.
- 8
Return to oven and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until cheese melts.
- 9
Remove from oven and sprinkle with dried basil and parsley.
Tips
Balsamic vinegar quantity is approximate; use judgment to balance acidity without overpowering the dish.
Ensure chicken is fully coated in seasoning mixture for even flavor and crispy texture.
Watch closely during broiling as timing varies by oven; cheese should melt but not brown excessively.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Prepare breading mixture and egg wash up to 4 hours ahead; coat chicken just before baking.
Serve immediately while cheese is warm and crispy coating is at peak texture. Pair with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Common Mistakes
Do not skip the egg wash; it helps breadcrumb coating adhere properly.
Do not broil longer than 5 minutes to avoid over-browning cheese or drying chicken.
Do not use too much balsamic vinegar as it can overwhelm the delicate mozzarella.