One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that feels both fresh and indulgent, you have to try this One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe. It’s everything you want in a quick meal—juicy chicken breasts glazed with a tangy-sweet balsamic sauce, topped with luscious fresh mozzarella and bright, juicy grape tomatoes. What makes this dish truly special is how all those flavors come together in one pan, making for a fuss-free cooking experience without sacrificing any depth or richness. It’s a perfect example of simple ingredients delivering a stunning dinner that your whole family will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this One Pan Balsamic Chicken is simple but thoughtfully chosen to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the sweet acidity of balsamic vinegar to the creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil, every component plays a vital role in making this dish pop.

• ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar: Brings a deep, tangy sweetness that’s the star of the sauce.
• 2 Tbsp. honey: Balances the vinegar with natural sweetness and a sticky glaze.
• 2 Tbsp. oil (avocado or olive): Provides a rich base for sautéing and roasting the chicken.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds an aromatic note that infuses the sauce with warmth.
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings earthy, herbaceous depth.
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard: Introduces a subtle tang and complexity to the sauce.
• 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved: Burst of juicy freshness and vibrant color on top.
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls): Creamy, melty cheese that balances acidity perfectly.
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil: Adds a fragrant, peppery brightness just before baking.
• 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness: Ensures even cooking and tender bites.
• 2 Tbsp. avocado or other high-heat oil: For searing the chicken to a golden brown crust.
• Kosher salt and fresh black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together the balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This luscious balsamic sauce will be your flavor bomb, giving the chicken that irresistible tangy-sweet glaze it needs to shine.

Step 2: Toss the Tomato and Mozzarella

In another bowl, combine the halved grape tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and finely chopped basil. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. This mixture will layer beautifully on top of the chicken, infusing it with freshness and creaminess as it bakes.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. When the oil shimmers and the pan is hot, place the chicken in a single layer and sear for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until lightly golden—this step locks in the juices and creates a beautiful crust.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Bake

Pour the prepared balsamic sauce over the browned chicken in the skillet. It should start to simmer immediately. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any caramelized bits from the pan’s bottom; those add extra flavor. Then, remove the skillet from the heat and evenly spoon the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture over the chicken breasts.

Step 5: Oven Finish

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 18 to 23 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is perfectly cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the mozzarella is soft and slightly melted. Let it rest for 5 minutes once out of the oven, so all those delicious juices redistribute for maximum tenderness and flavor.

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Garnishes

To elevate your One Pan Balsamic Chicken even more, sprinkle a few additional fresh basil leaves over the top right before serving. A light drizzle of extra balsamic vinegar glaze or a handful of cracked black pepper also adds a visually appealing touch and flavor boost. The fresh herbs and finishing touches make every bite feel bright and vibrant.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its rich, tangy profile. Think roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans, a simple garlic butter sautéed spinach, or even a fluffy herb-infused couscous. For a heartier option, creamy mashed potatoes or a buttery polenta work wonderfully to soak up all the balsamic sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the chicken on a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a fresh arugula and pear salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. You can also plate each piece topped with the tomato mozzarella mixture and a few crusty bread slices on the side to mop up every last bit of sauce. Presentation is all about making this simple, rustic dish feel like a meal to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place any leftover One Pan Balsamic Chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to intensify as it rests, making leftovers even more flavorful. Just be sure to keep the chicken and tomato mozzarella mixture together to preserve that signature flavor combination.

Freezing

This dish freezes pretty well, making it a great option for meal prep. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or use freezer-safe containers. To maintain the cheese’s texture, consider freezing without the mozzarella and adding fresh mozzarella when reheating. Frozen chicken can last up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent the chicken from drying out. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick. Add fresh mozzarella after reheating if it wasn’t included before freezing.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe and bring a bit more richness and juiciness. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through but not overdone.

What can I substitute for fresh mozzarella?

If fresh mozzarella is hard to find, you can use shredded mozzarella or even burrata for an extra creamy touch. Goat cheese can also add a tangy, creamy flavor twist if you want something a little different.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the One Pan Balsamic Chicken is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that all your ingredients, like Dijon mustard, do not contain gluten additives.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can turn this into a vegetarian dish by swapping chicken for hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices. The balsamic sauce and tomato mozzarella topping will still shine beautifully.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The safest way to judge doneness is by using a meat thermometer—165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the chicken means it’s perfectly cooked. Otherwise, cut into the chicken to check for clear juices and no pink inside.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is my go-to whenever I want a dinner that’s easy but feels special enough for guests or a cozy night in. It’s a perfect marriage of sweet, tangy, and fresh flavors with minimal cleanup. I promise, once you make this dish, it’ll quickly become a family favorite for busy nights and weekend meals alike. Don’t hesitate—grab those simple ingredients and let the magic happen in one pan!

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