Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Butterfly the chicken by running a sharp knife horizontally

through the thickest part of each breast. Place one hand on top of the breast

to stabilize while holding the knife parallel to the work surface while

cutting. Do not cut all the way through. Open the breast so both halves can lie

flat.

Season the exposed surface with salt and pepper, then add ¼ of the goat

cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced basil leaves to each breast. Fold the

breasts in half so the cheese mixture is surrounded by chicken breast on the

bottom, back and top. Secure with long wooden toothpicks, if desired.

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe

skillet. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts to the pan to sear. Once

browned on the bottom, carefully turn each breast over and repeat on the other

side. Season top and bottom with salt and pepper, if desired, during this

process.

Place skillet in preheated oven and cook until an instant

read thermometer reads 165 degrees when inserted, approximately 25-30 minutes.

Remove from the oven and cover until ready to serve.

A few minutes before removing the chicken from the oven,

start making the balsamic glaze. Heat balsamic vinegar in a small sauce pan

over medium-high heat. Stir while heating until the vinegar is reduced to about

⅓ of its original volume. It will form a thick, syrupy consistency when it is

ready.

To serve, place a stuffed chicken breast on each plate and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Pairs well with a mixed green salad or roasted vegetables.