One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The balsamic sauce gives the chicken a deep, tangy flavor that is complemented by the sweetness of honey. The fresh mozzarella adds a creamy richness, while the tomatoes provide a juicy burst with every bite. The best part? Everything cooks in one pan, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, with just 15 minutes of prep and about 30 minutes of cooking time, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal in no time!

Ingredients

For the Sauce:
⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
2 Tbsp. honey
2 Tbsp. oil (avocado or olive oil)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

For the Tomato Mozzarella:
8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil

For the Chicken:
2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
2 Tbsp. avocado oil or another high-heat oil
Kosher salt and fresh black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

3. In a separate bowl, toss the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

4. Heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

5. When the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly golden brown.

6. Add the balsamic sauce mixture to the pan, stirring with a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom.

7. Remove the pan from the heat and immediately add the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken.

8. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

9. Once cooked, remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for bone-in, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use large slices of eggplant or zucchini as the main “protein.” You can also add chickpeas for extra texture.

• Add Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the skillet for more flavor and texture.

• Vegan Option: Use a plant-based mozzarella and swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make it vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If reheating on the stove, add a little extra balsamic vinegar and olive oil to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor. If using bone-in thighs, increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and the tomato mozzarella mixture ahead of time. However, it’s best to cook the chicken just before serving to keep it tender and juicy.

3. Can I use a different kind of vinegar?

Balsamic vinegar is key for this dish’s flavor profile, but you can try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you don’t have balsamic.

4. What can I serve this dish with?

Serve this balsamic chicken with roasted vegetables, a green salad, or over pasta or rice to make a complete meal.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container.

6. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

7. Can I add more garlic to the sauce?

Absolutely! If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic to the sauce to suit your taste.

8. Can I use regular mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella?

You can use regular mozzarella, but fresh mozzarella will give a creamier texture that melts better.

9. How do I pound the chicken evenly?

Place the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap or inside a zip-top bag and use a mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness.

10. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but you can substitute dried basil if necessary. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil in place of the fresh basil.

Conclusion

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delicious, simple, and quick dish that will elevate your weeknight dinner routine. The combination of tender chicken, tangy balsamic sauce, and creamy mozzarella is sure to please everyone at the table. With easy prep and minimal cleanup, it’s the perfect solution for busy nights when you still want something flavorful and satisfying. Try this recipe today and enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort!