One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Juicy, cheesy, and tangy, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels special but comes together with almost no fuss. The balsamic glaze caramelizes beautifully while fresh mozzarella melts into the chicken, and cleanup is a breeze since everything bakes in one skillet. It’s quick, family-friendly, and perfect when you want dinner to taste like comfort without all the effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is a dinner saver when you’re craving big flavor but don’t have time for complicated steps. Families love how this One Pan Balsamic Chicken turns out juicy and cheesy every single time.. The tangy balsamic vinegar blends with honey, garlic, and Dijon to make a sweet-savory sauce that clings to juicy chicken breasts.

Meanwhile, fresh grape tomatoes roast until soft and slightly blistered, releasing their juices into the pan and creating an even richer glaze. Add mozzarella pearls that melt into gooey bites, and suddenly this simple skillet meal tastes like a dish straight from a cozy Italian kitchen.

Since everything happens in one oven-safe skillet, cleanup stays minimal and stress-free. You can easily serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and the leftovers reheat beautifully.

It’s healthy yet indulgent—perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even a casual date night at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll need simple, fresh ingredients to make this One Pan Balsamic Chicken shine at the dinner table.. Chicken breasts form the base, but you can swap for thighs if you like darker meat. The balsamic vinegar gives the sauce its tang, while honey adds balance and Dijon mustard brings a sharp depth. Garlic and Italian seasoning add that classic herby aroma. Grape tomatoes provide freshness, mozzarella balls create gooey richness, and basil brightens the entire skillet with a burst of flavor. Use either olive oil or avocado oil for cooking; both work well with high heat. Don’t forget kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to bring everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Balsamic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The mixture should taste both tangy and slightly sweet, perfect for glazing the chicken later.

Prepare the Tomato Basil Mix

In another bowl, toss halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This mix will become the fresh, melty topping that makes the chicken irresistible.

Sear the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Heat avocado oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, then sear for 1–2 minutes per side until golden but not fully cooked.

Add the Sauce and Bake

Pour the balsamic sauce into the hot skillet, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Remove from heat, spoon the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken, and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake uncovered for 18–23 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

Tips for the Best Results

Pounding the chicken evenly is key for tenderness and consistent cooking. Always use fresh basil for its vibrant flavor; dried won’t bring the same brightness. If you’re using ciliegine mozzarella, cut them in half so they melt more evenly. When scraping the skillet, don’t skip those browned bits—they give the balsamic sauce its deep, savory character. Also, resting the chicken before slicing keeps all those flavorful juices inside instead of running onto your plate. These small steps guarantee your One Pan Balsamic Chicken comes out tender and flavorful every single time.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even simple pasta so you can soak up all that balsamic sauce. For a lighter option, serve it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. A piece of crusty bread on the side works perfectly to mop up the last drops of the glaze. If you’re looking for a complete meal idea, serve this chicken with a bowl of creamy lemon pasta to pair with savory chicken for the ultimate comfort dinner.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken thighs are a great swap if you prefer richer, darker meat. Just keep in mind they’ll cook faster—usually 7–10 minutes after searing. You can also try mixing in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme instead of basil. For extra veggies, add sliced zucchini, red onions, or bell peppers to the skillet before baking. If you don’t have honey, maple syrup works nicely for a slightly different sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a covered dish in a 325°F oven until warmed through, or microwave gently in 30-second intervals to avoid drying it out. If the sauce thickens too much, splash in a teaspoon of water or broth while reheating. You can also prepare the chicken in advance by searing, adding the sauce, and refrigerating until ready to bake.

Related Recipes to Try

If you love this dish, you’ll also enjoy my juicy oven-baked chicken thighs for a one-pan dinner or the crispy parmesan crusted chicken sheet pan dinner for another easy weeknight option. For cozy comfort, try my crock pot chicken pot pie for cozy weeknights. And if pasta is calling your name, this creamy lemon pasta to pair with savory chicken makes a dreamy side.

Conclusion

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken brings together everything you want in a weeknight dinner: juicy chicken, melty cheese, tangy sauce, and hardly any cleanup. It’s comforting without being heavy, quick enough for busy evenings, and versatile enough to serve with whatever sides you love most. Try this easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe once, and I promise it will make regular appearances in your dinner rotation. For even more cozy recipe ideas, you can always check out my inspiration board at Pinterest.

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