Serves 6
30 min
Basil and Balsamic Italian Chicken
Recipe GLPRbf91221e219380
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.
