One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels special but doesn’t demand a million pots and pans, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken is going to become your new go-to recipe. It perfectly marries juicy, tender chicken breasts with a rich and tangy balsamic glaze, complemented by melting fresh mozzarella, sweet grape tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Each bite bursts with layers of flavor while keeping the cooking process delightfully simple thanks to everything coming together in just one pan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering straightforward, everyday pantry staples and fresh ingredients is key here. Each element plays an important role — the balsamic vinegar adds a deep tanginess, honey balances that with subtle sweetness, and the mozzarella combines beautifully for a creamy finish. Plus, a sprinkle of herbs and spices rounds everything out with color and aroma.

• Balsamic vinegar (1/3 cup): The star of the glaze, providing tang and complexity.
• Honey (2 tbsp): Adds just the right touch of natural sweetness to balance acidity.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): For a silky texture and richness in the sauce.
• Garlic cloves, minced (4): Aromatic punch that wakes up the whole dish.
• Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Classic herb mix that enhances the savory profile.
• Onion powder (1 tsp): Adds depth without overpowering.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Boosts garlic flavor evenly throughout.
• Dijon mustard (1 tbsp): A subtle tang that helps emulsify the balsamic blend.
• Fresh mozzarella (8 oz): For creamy, melty bites atop the chicken.
• Grape tomatoes, halved (2 cups): Juicy bursts of sweetness to contrast the tangy glaze.
• Fresh basil, chopped (2 tbsp): Bright herbaceous note finishing the dish beautifully.
• Vegetable oil (2 tbsp): For searing the chicken to a golden crisp.
• Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (2 lb), pounded to even thickness: Ensures quick, uniform cooking and juicy texture.
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out the flavors fully.

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Whip Up the Balsamic Sauce

Start by combining balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. This sauce is where the magic happens, blending tangy, sweet, and aromatic notes that will coat the chicken beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Mozzarella and Tomato Mixture

Tear the fresh mozzarella into rustic pieces by hand and toss it together with halved grape tomatoes and chopped basil in a separate bowl. Season this vibrant mixture with salt and black pepper. This topping adds creaminess and bursts of freshness that will complement the chicken perfectly after baking.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, season the chicken breasts well with sea salt and black pepper. Place them in the skillet in a single, uncrowded layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and beautifully caramelized.

Step 4: Simmer the Balsamic Glaze

Give the balsamic vinegar mixture a quick stir and pour it over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer, using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the pan’s bottom — that’s where the deepest flavor lives!

Step 5: Bake with Mozzarella and Tomatoes

Remove the skillet from heat, spread the mozzarella and tomato mixture evenly over the chicken, and place the whole pan in a 400°F oven. Bake uncovered for 18 to 23 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and slightly bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let your masterpiece sit for 3 to 5 minutes once out of the oven. This rest time helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Then serve and enjoy!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves scattered on top add a wonderful pop of color and bright herbal aroma just before serving. A light drizzle of extra balsamic vinegar can also amplify the tangy depth if you’re craving an extra flavor kick. Freshly cracked black pepper helps bring everything into sharp focus.

Side Dishes

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or buttery mashed potatoes that soak up the luscious sauce. Roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed green beans also add elegant simplicity and crunch to balance the creamy mozzarella topping.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style dinner, you can present the skillet right at the table—its sizzling aroma will draw everyone in. Or slice the chicken and arrange it over a bed of fluffy cooked quinoa or rice for a nutritious, colorful plate. Even serving it in sturdy pita pockets with some fresh greens makes for a fun and practical twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more over time, making for a delicious next-day meal. Make sure to separate the cheese topping if you want to maintain the fresh texture of the tomatoes when reheating.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Wrap portions tightly in freezer-safe foil or use freezer containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the tender texture of the chicken and vibrant flavors.

Reheating

Reheat your One Pan Balsamic Chicken in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slow warming helps preserve the juicy texture and keeps the mozzarella delightfully melty. Add fresh basil or tomatoes after reheating for freshness if desired.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work great too. They’re naturally juicier and more forgiving to cook, just adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a couple more minutes to reach the proper temperature.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No worries! You can do the searing in a regular skillet, then transfer the chicken and balsamic mixture to a baking dish for the oven step. Just be sure the baking dish is well prepared so nothing sticks.

Can I make the balsamic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the balsamic glaze can be mixed up a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature and whisk before pouring it over the chicken for best results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken is naturally gluten-free as long as you check your mustard and seasonings for any hidden gluten ingredients.

How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?

To appeal to little ones, reduce the amount of garlic and Italian seasoning slightly and maybe serve the mozzarella and tomato topping on the side so they can add what they like themselves. The simple yet rich flavors usually win over even picky eaters!

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is sincerely one of those recipes I love to share with friends because it feels indulgent without any fuss, and the flavors are genuinely addictive. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, it nails the perfect balance of easy prep and impressive taste. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a cherished dish in your weekly rotation!

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