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Chicken Margherita

Chicken Margherita with melted fresh mozzarella and balsamic glaze in a cast iron skillet
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Golden pan-seared chicken breasts finished in a tangy balsamic pan sauce, topped with fresh mozzarella, Roma tomato slices, and fresh basil. A stunning Italian-inspired weeknight dinner ready in about 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup chicken stock
  • 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  2. Season chicken breasts on both sides with kosher salt and black pepper. Pound to an even thickness if needed for consistent cooking.
  3. Heat a large cast iron or oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil. Once hot, add chicken and sear 5 to 6 minutes per side until deep golden brown on both sides. Do not move the chicken during searing.
  4. Add balsamic vinegar and chicken stock. Scrape up all browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.
  5. Layer each breast with fresh mozzarella slices followed by Roma tomato slices. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is fully melted and chicken reaches 165 degrees F at the thickest point. Use an instant-read thermometer.
  7. Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
  8. Optional but highly recommended: return skillet to medium heat and simmer remaining balsamic pan sauce for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened into a glaze.
  9. Spoon sauce over each breast, top with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Always use fresh mozzarella for the best melt and flavor. Low-moisture shredded mozzarella works but lacks the same freshness and visual appeal.
  • Add fresh basil only after removing from the oven. Basil wilts and turns black under direct heat and should be used as a finishing garnish only.
  • Pound uneven chicken breasts to a uniform thickness before searing to ensure even cooking throughout.
  • Boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted. Adjust baking time accordingly and always verify 165 degrees F internal temperature.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/chicken-margherita/