One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. Tender chicken breasts are cooked in a tangy balsamic glaze alongside juicy tomatoes and fresh mozzarella for a delightful Italian-inspired dish.

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 2 Tbsp. oil, such as avocado or olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
• 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in a large skillet over medium heat and pour the balsamic mixture over them. Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
3. Step 3: Add the halved grape tomatoes to the skillet around the chicken. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
4. Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh mozzarella balls over the chicken and tomatoes. Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes to allow the cheese to soften slightly.
5. Step 5: Garnish with finely chopped fresh basil before serving. Serve warm with your favorite side dish.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
• Substitute fresh basil with fresh thyme or oregano for a different herbal note.
• Use gluten-free Dijon mustard if needed to keep this dish gluten-free.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Fresh mozzarella can become tougher after refrigeration, so it’s best added fresh if possible.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require slightly longer cooking time and will add a richer flavor.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts?

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and stay tender throughout.

One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 112 reviews

A simple and flavorful one-pan balsamic chicken recipe that combines juicy chicken breasts with sweet balsamic glaze, honey, and fresh Italian herbs. The dish is completed with roasted grape tomatoes and melted fresh mozzarella, finished with chopped basil for a vibrant, delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Marinade and Chicken

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 2 Tbsp. oil, such as avocado or olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness

Additional Ingredients

• 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil if needed to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, basting occasionally with the remaining marinade.
5. Add Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Reduce heat to low, scatter the halved grape tomatoes around the chicken, then add fresh mozzarella balls on top or around the chicken breasts.
6. Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mozzarella softens and begins to melt.
7. Finish with Basil and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with finely chopped fresh basil, and serve immediately for a warm, satisfying meal.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken thighs if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly.
• For extra depth, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
• If you don’t have fresh mozzarella, shredded mozzarella can be used but won’t melt as smoothly.
• This dish pairs well with crusty bread, pasta, or a light salad.
• Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Keywords: Balsamic chicken, one pan chicken, mozzarella chicken recipe, easy Italian chicken, balsamic glaze chicken, weeknight dinner