One Pan Balsamic Chicken

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There’s nothing better than a dish that brings together bold flavors with minimal effort, and this one-pan balsamic chicken does just that. With juicy chicken breasts, a rich balsamic glaze, and the freshness of tomatoes and mozzarella, this meal is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. What makes it even better? Everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a winner.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The balsamic sauce enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, while the fresh basil and mozzarella add a classic Italian touch. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, over a bed of leafy greens, or with a side of quinoa or rice for a complete meal. If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive dish, this balsamic chicken is a must-try!

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

Chicken:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Tomato & Mozzarella Topping:

  • 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. In another bowl, mix the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  5. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in the pan in a single layer. Sear for about 1-2 minutes per side until lightly golden.
  6. Pour the balsamic sauce over the chicken, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  7. Remove from heat and evenly distribute the tomato-mozzarella mixture over the chicken.
  8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations & Tips:

  • Swap out the chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick.
  • Use cherry tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
  • For extra richness, drizzle a bit of reduced balsamic glaze on top before serving.

Nutritional & Dietary Notes:

This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and mozzarella, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The balsamic vinegar and honey add a subtle sweetness without being overpowering, while the fresh basil provides a hint of freshness. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by omitting the mozzarella or using a plant-based alternative. For a lower-carb version, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed vegetables.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring:

If you loved this balsamic chicken, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with friends and family! Let us know how it turned out in the comments, or tag us on social media with your own variations. Cooking is all about experimenting and making dishes your own, so feel free to get creative and tell us how you made this recipe even better!