Basil and Balsamic Italian Chicken

Name: Basil and Balsamic Italian Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3 large garlic cloves, minced; 2/3 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped finely; 2 large tomatoes, sliced; 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Recipe GLPRbf91221e219380

Italian

Main Course

30 min

259 cal

Servings: 6

Oven

Stovetop

SNAP eligible

Tender chicken breasts topped with fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and melted mozzarella, finished with a rich balsamic reduction and fragrant garlic-basil oil. A simple yet elegant Mediterranean dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your dinner table in just 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 lemon

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3 large garlic cloves, minced

2/3 cup balsamic vinegar

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped finely

2 large tomatoes, sliced

4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly coat a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
Place the chicken breasts skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Squeeze juice from half the lemon over the chicken, then season generously with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Flip each breast over and repeat the seasoning on the other side.
Bake the chicken for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the breasts.
While the chicken bakes, pour the balsamic vinegar into a small skillet and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Simmer for 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces to a thick, syrupy consistency.
In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh basil, remaining minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set the basil mixture aside until needed.
Remove the chicken from the oven. Top each breast with a slice of tomato, then cover with a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese begins to melt.
Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Top each breast with a generous spoonful of the basil mixture, then drizzle the balsamic reduction evenly over each piece. Serve immediately.

Comments

Grocery List Plus Editorial Staff4

Every ingredient is standard stock at Charlotte chains—Harris Teeter, Food Lion, Kroger, and Walmart all carry fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, and quality mozzarella without a special trip. The cost per serving lands around $2.50–$3.00 when using mid-range chicken breasts and bulk basil, which is solid for a protein-centered weeknight dish. The stated 30 minutes is honest if chicken is already out and you work briskly; prep and sear time run close to that. This reheats adequately as a cold salad or warm in a low oven, making it flexible for families with staggered dinners, though the dish tastes freshest same-night when basil hasn't wilted and mozzarella is still tender.