One Pan Balsamic Chicken

The first time I made this One Pan Balsamic Chicken dish was after a long workday when I was craving something cozy, but I had zero patience for a complicated recipe. I opened the fridge, saw some chicken breasts, tomatoes, and mozzarella, and remembered a balsamic chicken idea I had seen online. That simple dinner turned out so flavorful and beautiful, I’ve been coming back to it ever since.

What makes this dish a standout for beginner cooks is how effortlessly it comes together—there’s just one pan, minimal prep, and ingredients that are fresh, wholesome, and familiar. It’s also a fantastic option if you’re trying to eat cleaner but don’t want to sacrifice taste. With juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella all baked in a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze, this is one of those quick and healthy meals that feels like way more than the sum of its parts.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Combines simple cooking techniques with gourmet flavors—perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
• One pan means less cleanup and more convenience.
• Balanced, wholesome ingredients make this a lighter meal option.
• Adaptable with pantry swaps and protein choices.
• Delivers impressive flavor without requiring culinary experience.

Ingredients and Preparation

Chicken Breast
This lean protein serves as the base of the dish. When pounded to even thickness, it cooks quickly and evenly, staying juicy.

Balsamic Vinegar
Adds tanginess and depth. It reduces into a slightly sweet glaze when cooked, elevating the dish’s flavor profile.

Honey
Balances the acidity of balsamic and adds a gentle sweetness that complements the tomatoes.

Avocado or Olive Oil
Used for cooking and to help the sauce coat the chicken. Avocado oil is great for high-heat cooking.

Garlic
Enhances the aroma and adds a punch of flavor that pairs well with the tomatoes and herbs.

Italian Seasoning
A mix of dried herbs that keeps things simple while delivering classic Mediterranean notes.

Dijon Mustard
Adds slight sharpness and helps emulsify the sauce.

Grape Tomatoes
Burst with sweetness and freshness. Roasting them enhances their natural sugars.

Mozzarella Balls (Ciliegine or Pearls)
Creamy and mild, they soften in the oven for a melty finish.

Fresh Basil
Brings brightness and a touch of elegance. Added after cooking to retain its fragrance.

Salt and Pepper
Season everything to taste and help enhance the natural flavors.

Ingredient Swaps:

• Chicken Thighs for a juicier texture (just reduce baking time slightly).
• Maple Syrup instead of honey for a deeper, earthy sweetness.
• Cherry Tomatoes or chopped Roma tomatoes if grape tomatoes aren’t available.
• Shredded Mozzarella if fresh mozzarella balls aren’t on hand.
• Dried Basil in a pinch, though fresh is best.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard in a bowl until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside.

Step 2
In a separate bowl, toss the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil. Lightly season with salt and pepper and set aside.

Step 3
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden.

Step 4
Pour the balsamic sauce over the seared chicken and let it come to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon.

Step 5
Remove the skillet from heat and spoon the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 18–23 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and flavors to settle.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• If the chicken browns too quickly, lower the heat slightly; you want golden, not burnt.
• Pound your chicken evenly—this not only helps it cook uniformly but also makes it tender.
• If your tomatoes are very watery, let them drain briefly on paper towel to avoid diluting the sauce.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—165°F is the golden number for chicken.
• No oven-safe skillet? Sear the chicken in a pan, then transfer it to a baking dish before adding toppings and baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or al dente pasta to soak up the extra sauce.
• Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
• For a low-carb option, try it with cauliflower mash or zoodles.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

This easy sheet pan dinner is a true gem for beginner cooks—it’s forgiving, flavorful, and always delivers results. Whether you’re cooking for one, two, or a family of four, this Balsamic Chicken recipe (with a balsamic twist!) will earn a spot in your weekly rotation. Give it a try, and don’t forget to come back and share how it turned out. I’d love to hear if you made any swaps or have tips of your own.

FAQ About Balsamic Chicken

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