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Homemade Mediterranean Chicken Bake Recipe (Balsamic Baked Chicken) photo

Mediterranean Chicken Bake Recipe (Balsamic Baked Chicken)

A simple Mediterranean-style baked chicken with balsamic, artichokes, tomatoes, beans, and mozzarella.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil good quality (roasted garlic oil suggested)
  • 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs thighs recommended
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 14 oz marinated artichoke hearts 1 can or jar, drained
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes left whole
  • 14 oz white beans 1 can, drained and rinsed
  • 3/4 cup whole salted cashews
  • 1 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls (whole milk mozzarella) added after baking
  • 4 sprigs fresh oregano chopped

Instructions
 

  • Place the chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar over it; marinate at least 30 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a 9x13-inch baking dish, combine the drained white beans, cashews, whole cherry tomatoes, drained marinated artichoke hearts, and thinly sliced red onion; spread into an even layer.
  • Season both sides of the marinated chicken with salt and pepper.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken 2 minutes per side until nicely seared but not cooked through.
  • Place the browned chicken on top of the vegetable and bean mixture in the baking dish; brush the chicken with a little additional balsamic vinegar.
  • Pour 1 1/2 cups chicken broth into the dish around the chicken and scatter the chopped oregano over the top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
  • Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle the mozzarella pearls over the hot chicken and vegetables, and allow the cheese to soften for a few minutes before serving.
  • Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture on its own or over rice or pasta if desired.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
  • Use thighs for juicier results.
  • Brown chicken briefly to add color before baking.
  • Add mozzarella after baking so it stays soft.