One Pan Balsamic Chicken | Amazing Weeknight Dinner Recipe

There’s something comforting about a skillet bubbling away in the oven while you set the table. The aroma of balsamic vinegar mingling with garlic and roasted tomatoes fills the kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and somehow feels like you’ve done more work than you actually have. That’s the charm of One Pan Balsamic Chicken — hearty, colorful, and made for weeknights that need a little brightness.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Balsamic Chicken

This dish checks all the right boxes. The chicken turns out juicy and tender. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy-sweet shine that pairs beautifully with fresh mozzarella and basil. And everything happens in one skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time to relax.

You’ll love how balanced the flavors are — sweet honey, sharp mustard, and warm garlic in every bite. Plus, it takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish and makes enough for six satisfying servings. Perfect for family dinners or simple meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Balsamic 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
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Mozzarella Topping

• 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
• 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken

• 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• 2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil
• Kosher salt and black pepper

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1 – Make the Balsamic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed. This step sets the foundation for that rich, glossy flavor.

Step 2 – Prepare the Tomato Mozzarella Mix

In another bowl, toss the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella, and chopped basil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. The freshness will balance the richness of the sauce later.

Step 3 – Sear the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper, and sear each side for about 2 minutes until lightly golden. The goal is color, not full cooking.

Step 4 – Combine and Bake

Pour the balsamic sauce into the skillet. Stir gently and scrape up the brown bits for extra flavor. Then remove from heat, top with the tomato mozzarella mix, and bake uncovered for 18 to 23 minutes.

Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, pull it out and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. The juices will settle, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Pound chicken evenly so it cooks quickly and stays juicy.
• Use ciliegine mozzarella (cut in half) or pearls for easy melting.
• Choose a high-heat oil like avocado oil for the best sear.
• If using chicken thighs, bake 7–10 minutes and skip pounding.
• For a touch of sweetness, drizzle a little extra honey over the finished dish.
• Garnish with fresh basil or a light drizzle of balsamic reduction for a glossy finish.

Try pairing it with roasted green beans with garlic and parmesan for a crisp side dish.

Common Questions (FAQ)

More Such Recipes

If you loved this, try creamy honey garlic chicken breast for another comforting dinner idea.
You might also enjoy cranberry orange chicken with a zesty twist, or make slow cooker chicken taco soup for busy weeknights when you need something cozy.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the kind of meal that turns a regular night into something special. It feels homey, but the flavors are bold and bright. You get sweetness from the honey, tang from the vinegar, and comfort from the melted mozzarella.

Make it once, and it’ll quickly join your weeknight rotation. Save or share the recipe, and tag us if you make it — we’d love to see your version. You can follow along for more easy dinner inspiration on Pinterest or Facebook.

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