Looking for a healthy, flavorful chicken dish that feels gourmet but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner? This Chicken Margherita with Balsamic is a perfect blend of juicy grilled chicken, melted mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil, finished with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a restaurant-quality meal made right at home in under 30 minutes.
Chicken Margherita With Balsamic Recipe
Course: Main CourseCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes25
minutes350
kcalChicken Margherita With Balsamic Recipe
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
2 medium tomatoes, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup balsamic glaze
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano on both sides.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is baking, slice the tomatoes and mozzarella. Set them aside.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven. Top each piece of chicken with slices of mozzarella cheese and tomato.
- Return the skillet to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and drizzle the balsamic glaze over the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Recipe Video
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken Margherita with a side of garlic roasted vegetables, zucchini noodles, or a simple arugula salad for a well-balanced meal. For a more indulgent plate, serve it over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. Crusty bread on the side is also great for soaking up that irresistible balsamic glaze.
Savings Suggestions
To keep costs down:
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts—they’re often cheaper and just as flavorful.
- Opt for store-brand balsamic glaze or make your own using pantry staples.
- Buy mozzarella and tomatoes in bulk during sales and freeze any extras for future use.
- Grow your own basil—it’s easy to maintain indoors and adds fresh flavor all year round.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
Yes! Store-bought balsamic glaze works great and saves time. Just check for added sugars if you’re watching your intake.
Q: Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
Absolutely. With no breading and minimal carbs, this dish fits well into low-carb and keto meal plans.
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?
Yes, grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor. Just be sure to grill until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C).
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can! Prepare the chicken in advance and store it separately from the toppings. Reheat and assemble when ready to serve for best results.
Q: What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella is best, but provolone or sliced burrata are great alternatives for a similar texture and flavor.
