Simple One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe That Sizzles with Flavor

Tender chicken sizzles with an irresistible balsamic chicken recipe that brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your kitchen.

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot more exciting with this simple yet sophisticated dish.

The rich, tangy sauce coats each piece of chicken, creating a mouthwatering meal that takes minimal effort.

Cooking becomes a breeze when you can prepare everything in a single pan, saving time on cleanup.

Fresh herbs and a splash of balsamic vinegar transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary.

The combination of juicy chicken and deep, complex flavors will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Serve this delectable meal and watch as your dinner becomes the highlight of the evening.

Why You’ll Love One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Balsamic sauce creates a tangy-sweet profile that transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy dish, packed with rich, complex tastes from honey, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
• Adaptable recipe works brilliantly for family dinners, date nights, or casual gatherings, appealing to both picky eaters and food enthusiasts with its blend of tender chicken, melty mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes.
• Combines lean protein with fresh ingredients like basil and tomatoes, offering a nutritious option that doesn't compromise on taste or excitement while keeping meal preparation stress-free.

One Pan Balsamic Chicken Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: Tender, lean meat that serves as the main protein of the dish.

• Balsamic Vinegar, Honey: Creates a sweet and tangy sauce that adds depth and richness to the chicken.
• Garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle, sharp kick to the balsamic sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a classic herbal blend that complements the chicken and sauce.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the flavors.

• Grape Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes that add brightness and color to the dish.
• Mozzarella Balls: Creamy cheese that melts beautifully and provides a rich, smooth texture.
• Fresh Basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic herb note that brings the dish together.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken and adding a smooth, rich base to the cooking process.

Instructions for Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Create Flavorful Sauce

Whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, oil, mustard, and Italian seasoning in a bowl.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Set sauce aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare Fresh Tomato-Mozzarella Mixture

• Halved grape tomatoes
• Mozzarella balls
• Fresh basil leaves

Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Sear Chicken

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with oil.

Place chicken in the pan and cook 1-2 minutes per side until light golden color develops.

Focus on building flavor without fully cooking the chicken.

Step 4: Deglaze With Balsamic Mixture

Pour balsamic sauce into the hot pan.

Watch it bubble and use a wooden spoon to scrape up browned bits from the bottom, capturing all the delicious flavor elements.

Step 5: Add Tomato-Mozzarella Topping

Remove pan from heat.

Spread tomato and mozzarella mixture evenly over chicken, ensuring cheese is distributed for maximum deliciousness.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Transfer pan to oven.

Bake 18-23 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internally.

Tomatoes will become soft and slightly blistered.

Step 7: Allow Chicken to Rest

Remove pan from oven.

Let chicken rest for 5 minutes.

This crucial step helps redistribute juices, ensuring tender and moist meat.

Tips to Nail Balsamic Chicken

• Taste the balsamic sauce before adding it to the chicken to ensure perfect flavor balance. Adjust salt, pepper, or honey to match your preference.
• Pat grape tomatoes dry before mixing with mozzarella to avoid excess liquid that could make the dish soggy during baking.
• Allow chicken to rest after cooking, which helps redistribute juices and keeps the meat incredibly moist and flavorful.
• Use fresh mozzarella balls and ripe grape tomatoes for the best texture and burst of natural sweetness in the dish.
• Use medium-high heat when searing chicken to develop golden color without burning, creating a delicious flavor foundation.

Proper Storage for Balsamic Chicken

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed chicken will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Chicken will maintain quality for up to 3 months when frozen.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking. Add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.

Best Pairings for Balsamic Chicken

• Flavor-Boosting Wine Pairing: Choose a crisp, medium-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc that complements the balsamic's tangy notes and cuts through the richness of the mozzarella.
• Herb-Fresh Side Companion: Serve a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the dish's sweetness and add a peppery contrast that enhances the chicken's balsamic glaze.
• Crusty Bread Sidekick: Grab a rustic ciabatta or French baguette to soak up the delicious pan juices, capturing every drop of the balsamic sauce and adding a delightful textural element to the meal.
• Refreshing Drink Option: Mix a sparkling water with a splash of elderflower syrup to cleanse the palate between bites and provide a light, effervescent counterpoint to the rich chicken dish.

Flavor Swaps for Balsamic Chicken

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace regular mustard with Dijon mustard and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce if needed.
• Mediterranean Herb Variation: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Add kalamata olives to the tomato-mozzarella mix for extra Mediterranean flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute honey with sugar-free maple syrup or monk fruit sweetener. Replace grape tomatoes with bell pepper chunks to reduce carbohydrate content.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free mozzarella alternative or nutritional yeast. Replace cheese with roasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for added texture and protein.

FAQs

• What makes balsamic vinegar special in this recipe?

Balsamic vinegar adds a rich, tangy sweetness that caramelizes during cooking, creating a deep, complex flavor profile that transforms the entire dish with its unique depth and complexity.

• Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts or thighs. Just ensure they’re similar in size for even cooking, and adjust cooking time slightly depending on the cut’s thickness to maintain optimal moisture and tenderness.

• How do I know if the chicken is cooked properly?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked while remaining juicy and safe to eat, preventing any risk of foodborne illness.

• Is this recipe considered healthy?

This recipe is relatively healthy, offering a balanced meal with lean protein from chicken, antioxidants from tomatoes, and calcium from mozzarella. It’s lower in calories compared to many cream-based chicken dishes and provides good nutritional value.

One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 33 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savor the irresistible One Pan Balsamic Chicken that brings Mediterranean flavors straight to your dinner table. Succulent chicken breasts glazed with tangy balsamic reduction promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• 8 ounces (226 grams) grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces (226 grams) fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or other high-heat oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt
• Fresh black pepper

Aromatic Ingredients:

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

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Instructions

1. Craft a vibrant balsamic sauce by blending vinegar, honey, minced garlic, oil, mustard, and Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then reserve for later use.
2. Prepare a fresh tomato-mozzarella garnish by combining halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil. Season lightly with salt and pepper, setting aside to allow flavors to meld.
3. Heat oven to 400°F and warm a skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and quickly sear chicken pieces, creating a golden exterior in 1-2 minutes per side without fully cooking through.
4. Pour balsamic sauce into the hot skillet, allowing it to bubble and release caramelized chicken bits from the pan bottom. This step intensifies the overall flavor profile.
5. Distribute the prepared tomato-mozzarella mixture evenly across the chicken, ensuring a balanced coverage of cheese and vegetables.
6. Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven. Bake for 18-23 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and tomatoes develop a slight char.
7. Remove from oven and allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness and moisture.

Notes

• Choose high-quality balsamic vinegar for deeper, richer flavor that elevates the entire dish’s taste profile.
• Select chicken breasts of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
• Fresh mozzarella works best, creating creamy pockets that melt beautifully during baking and complement the tangy balsamic sauce.
• For gluten-free version, verify your mustard and seasonings are certified gluten-free, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this delicious meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 23 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg