Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings a taste of Italy straight to your dinner table with minimal effort. With just a few fresh ingredients, it offers a healthy, protein-packed meal full of comforting flavors. It’s quick to prepare, requires only one baking dish, and can easily be customized to your preferences. Plus, the melty mozzarella combined with the sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil is pure magic.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Place them in the prepared dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Drizzle over the chicken.
- Scatter the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls around the chicken.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the dish.
- Serve hot, drizzling any pan juices over the chicken.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 40 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and baking.
Variations
- Swap mozzarella balls for shredded mozzarella or provolone for a different cheesy experience.
- Substitute basil with baby spinach for a milder flavor.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer, juicier dish.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- Make it dairy-free by using a vegan cheese alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Leftover chicken can also be shredded and added to salads, wraps, or pasta.
FAQs
How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Remove the chicken from the oven once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken bake?
Crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad are great options.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the garlic-balsamic mixture.
Is it possible to grill the chicken instead?
You could grill the chicken first for extra flavor, then assemble the dish and bake it briefly to melt the cheese.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, try provolone, gouda, or even goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
How do I know if my chicken breasts are evenly cooked?
Ensure they are similar in size and thickness before baking, or pound them to even thickness.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s not ideal as dairy doesn’t always freeze well, but you can freeze the chicken portion separately for up to 2 months.
What wine pairs well with this meal?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors wonderfully.
Conclusion
Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake is a delightful, easy-to-make meal that brings robust Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table. It’s wholesome, adaptable, and perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to entertaining guests. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious harmony of juicy chicken, fresh basil, and melty mozzarella in every bite!
Print
Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Mozzarella and Basil Chicken Bake is an easy one-pan Mediterranean-inspired dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and sweet cherry tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals, this flavorful chicken bake is a must-try for lovers of quick, healthy, and delicious meals.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
-
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. Place in the baking dish.
-
Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic together; drizzle over chicken.
-
Scatter cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls around the chicken.
-
Sprinkle Parmesan and red pepper flakes (if using) on top.
-
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C internal temperature).
-
Remove from oven and top with chopped basil.
-
Serve hot, drizzling pan juices over the chicken.
-
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
-
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. Place in the baking dish.
-
Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic together; drizzle over chicken.
-
Scatter cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls around the chicken.
-
Sprinkle Parmesan and red pepper flakes (if using) on top.
-
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C internal temperature).
-
Remove from oven and top with chopped basil.
-
Serve hot, drizzling pan juices over the chicken.
-
Notes
Swap fresh mozzarella balls with shredded mozzarella or provolone.
Substitute fresh basil with baby spinach if desired.
Add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a heartier meal.
For dairy-free, use vegan cheese alternatives.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate; add 5–10 minutes to bake time if baking from cold.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Swap fresh mozzarella balls with shredded mozzarella or provolone. Substitute fresh basil with baby spinach if desired. Add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a heartier meal. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese alternatives. Assemble ahead and refrigerate; add 5–10 minutes to bake time if baking from cold.
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian-inspired
