One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One pan balsamic chicken brings together juicy chicken breasts with sweet tangy glaze all in one skillet for a quick yet elegant meal. My family absolutely loves this recipe on busy nights because it is full of fresh flavors and needs hardly any cleanup.

When I first tried this I was amazed by how the tomatoes and mozzarella become luscious in the oven. Now this is my go to for easy dinners with friends or whenever I have extra basil to use up.

Ingredients

• Balsamic vinegar: Brings a deep sweet tangy punch Choose a high quality aged vinegar for best results
• Honey: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances acidity Go for pure honey with no additives
• Olive oil or avocado oil: Helps the chicken brown and keeps everything moist Use a fruity olive oil for softness or avocado oil for higher heat cooking
• Fresh garlic: Lends bright zesty flavor Always chop or mince fresh cloves for the most intense taste
• Italian seasoning: Adds that classic herby profile Look for a blend with oregano basil and thyme
• Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the sauce and adds a sharp background Use a smooth creamy Dijon
• Grape tomatoes: Give bursts of juicy freshness Choose ripe small tomatoes that are firm and glossy
• Fresh mozzarella balls: Melts beautifully and gives creaminess Ciliegine or pearls work equally well make sure they are packed in water for freshness
• Fresh basil: Gives everything that Italian garden taste Smaller basil leaves tend to be most fragrant
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Main protein Easy to cook quickly Pound to even thickness for juicy tender meat
• Salt and fresh black pepper: Season every component generously for best flavor Use kosher salt for even seasoning and freshly cracked black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Sauce:

Whisk together balsamic vinegar honey oil minced garlic Italian seasoning and Dijon mustard until smooth and glossy Season with salt and black pepper to taste Set aside

Mix Tomato Mozzarella:

Combine halved grape tomatoes mozzarella balls and chopped fresh basil in a bowl Toss with salt and black pepper to boost flavor Set aside

Sear the Chicken:

Preheat oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Heat oil in a large oven safe skillet over medium high Season pounded chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper Add the chicken in a single layer to the hot pan and cook for one to two minutes per side until each piece has a light golden crust

Add Sauce and Deglaze:

Pour the prepared balsamic sauce into the skillet once the chicken is browned Let it come to a simmer and quickly use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan These bits give extra flavor

Top with Tomato Mozzarella:

Remove the pan from heat Scatter the tomato mozzarella basil mixture evenly over the chicken in the skillet

Bake to Finish:

Transfer the skillet uncovered to the preheated oven Bake for eighteen to twenty three minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit The cheese should be melted and tomatoes sizzling

Rest and Serve:

Let the dish rest for five minutes after baking before slicing and serving This keeps the chicken juicy and lets the flavors meld

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When my daughter first helped me pound the chicken she burst into giggles and called herself the chicken drummer Little moments like that turn a simple weeknight meal into a lasting family memory. I always make sure to use the freshest basil from our patio plant for the brightest flavor.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to prevent the chicken from drying out. Freezing is possible though fresh mozzarella may become slightly chewy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find mozzarella balls use diced regular mozzarella or even provolone for a different twist. Maple syrup works in place of honey for a deeper sweetness. Boneless thighs can replace chicken breasts just allow extra baking time.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken loves to be paired with warm crusty bread to soak up that balsamic glaze. It shines over simple cooked pasta or a peppery arugula salad. For a hearty meal add roasted baby potatoes alongside.

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Cultural and Historical Context

Balsamic chicken recipes trace their roots to Italian cucina povera where humble ingredients like vinegar and herbs became flavorful dishes. Combining fresh mozzarella tomatoes and basil mimics the enduring Caprese salad beloved all over Italy.

Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different cheese if I don't have mozzarella?

Yes, while fresh mozzarella is classic, you can substitute with provolone or burrata for a creamy texture and mild flavor.

→ How do I make sure the chicken stays moist?

Pounding the chicken to even thickness and avoiding overcooking will keep it tender. Let it rest after baking to retain juices.

→ Is it necessary to pre-sear the chicken before baking?

Lightly searing the chicken helps develop flavor and color, contributing to a richer taste and a more appealing texture.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

You can mix the sauce and marinate the chicken earlier in the day. Assemble and bake just before serving for best results.

→ What sides pair well with this meal?

Simple sides like roasted vegetables, crusty bread, or a leafy green salad complement the balsamic flavors beautifully.

→ Can I use thighs instead of breasts?

Boneless, skinless thighs work well. Adjust baking time as needed—thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through.