If you’re searching for a dish that’s both dazzlingly delicious and surprisingly easy, let me introduce you to the gem that is One Pan Balsamic Chicken. This recipe is a harmonious blend of tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious balsamic-honey glaze, paired beautifully with juicy grape tomatoes and creamy fresh mozzarella. Every bite bursts with bright, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Plus, thanks to being a true one-pan wonder, cleanup is a breeze—making this dish perfect for weeknights or special dinners alike. Let me walk you through why this is one of my all-time favorites and exactly how to make it your go-to meal.

One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the reasons One Pan Balsamic Chicken is so irresistible is how its simple yet thoughtful ingredients come together to create a symphony of taste and texture. Each item on this list plays a crucial role, whether adding acidity, sweetness, freshness, or richness to the dish. Here’s what you’ll gather before getting started:

1/3 cup balsamic vinegar: Gives the glaze its signature tangy depth and a subtle sweetness.

2 Tbsp. honey: Balances the tartness with soothing natural sweetness.
2 Tbsp. oil, such as avocado or olive oil: Provides a smooth base for cooking and enhances flavor absorption.

2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings savory warmth and aromatic punch.
1 tsp. Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that adds layer and complexity.

1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharp bite to lift the balsamic glaze.
8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juicy sweetness that brightens the dish.
8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls): Melts slightly to add creamy, mild richness.

2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil: Offers a fragrant herbaceous note that’s vibrant and fresh.
2 lb. boneless, skinless, chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness: Ensures juicy, even cooking with a tender bite.
2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to golden perfection.

Kosher salt and fresh black pepper: The essential seasoning duo that brings everything together.

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Whisk and Season the Sauce

Start by combining your balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Whisk everything together until silky and smooth, then season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your taste. Setting this sauce aside allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you prep the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato and Mozzarella Mixture

In a separate bowl, gently toss the halved grape tomatoes with the mozzarella pearls and finely chopped fresh basil. This colorful combo adds a vibrant pop of red and creamy white, alongside wonderfully fresh herbal notes. Season lightly with salt and pepper, and let it sit so the flavors mingle.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F to get ready for that final bake. Heat the high-heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. While it warms, season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, lay the chicken in the pan carefully so each piece has its own space. Sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes per side until it develops a beautiful golden crust—this step is key for flavor and texture.

Step 4: Add the Balsamic Mixture and Simmer

Reduce the heat slightly and pour your prepared balsamic sauce over the seared chicken. It should come to a simmer almost immediately. Take a wooden spoon and gently scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—these little caramelized morsels pack intense flavor straight into your glaze.

Step 5: Layer the Tomato Mozzarella Topping and Bake

Remove the skillet promptly from the stovetop and evenly spread the tomato, mozzarella, and basil mixture on top of the chicken. Pop the entire skillet into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 18-23 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is perfectly cooked through when its internal temperature hits 165 degrees F. After baking, let the dish rest for 5 minutes—this ensures the juices redistribute and makes every bite juicy and tender.

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Garnishes

Adding a finishing touch can elevate this dish visually and flavor-wise. I love scattering extra fresh basil leaves on top after baking for a fragrant burst of color and freshness. If you want a pinch of brightness, a quick drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a grating of lemon zest can brighten the balsamic glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

Since One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a hearty main, pairing it with light and complementary sides works best. Creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf soak up the delicious pan sauce splendidly. For a bit of contrast, sautéed green beans or a crisp mixed green salad offer refreshing crispness and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or simply want to jazz up your plate, serve the chicken on a rustic wooden board surrounded by roasted veggies or fresh olives. Alternatively, plating the chicken atop a bed of buttered pasta with a spoonful of the tomato mozzarella mixture creates a stunning and satisfying presentation. A small bowl of extra balsamic sauce on the side invites guests to drizzle more as they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and believe me, that’s a good problem to have), transfer the chicken and its toppings into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even better overnight, making for a quick, delicious lunch or easy dinner the next day.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken without the tomato mozzarella topping. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh toppings.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat or in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through. If microwaving, cover loosely and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken. Add fresh mozzarella and basil toppings after reheating to preserve their creamy texture and vibrant color.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay juicier thanks to a bit more fat content. Just adjust cooking time slightly since thighs can take a little longer to fully cook.

What if I don’t have fresh mozzarella balls?

You can substitute regular fresh mozzarella sliced or torn into chunks. The smaller mozzarella pearls just melt evenly and look lovely on the plate, but the flavor remains the same.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the mozzarella and add extra fresh basil or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast after baking for a cheesy hint without dairy.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Definitely. All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free if you double-check your balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard labels for any hidden gluten-containing additives.

How can I make the balsamic glaze thicker?

If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the balsamic vinegar and honey mixture on the stovetop for several minutes before adding it to the chicken. This reduction will intensify and thicken the sauce perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Inviting the irresistible flavors of One Pan Balsamic Chicken into your kitchen means welcoming an easy yet elegant dish that never fails to impress. It’s a fantastic way to elevate weeknight dinners without hours of work, and the vibrant flavors make it one you’ll want to return to again and again. Give this recipe a try, invite some friends or family over, and enjoy the delightful simplicity of great food made with love and minimal fuss.