Name: Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons oil (such as avocado or olive oil); 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste; 8 ounces grape tomatoes, halved; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls); 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil; Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste; 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness; 2 tablespoons avocado oil or other high-heat oil; Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste

Introduction

This Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken is a flavorful and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are cooked with a tangy balsamic sauce, fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella for a delicious, cheesy finish. This recipe combines simple ingredients for a comforting dish everyone will love.

A skillet filled with three cooked chicken breasts covered in melted white cheese and a few green basil leaves. Surrounding the chicken are bright red cherry tomatoes, some whole and some slightly cooked, with a mix of light brown sauce underneath. The chicken has a golden brown color with slightly charred spots, and the sauce looks creamy. The top layer has green basil leaves scattered around, adding fresh contrast. The skillet sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil

Kosher salt and fresh black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, 2 tablespoons oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the sauce aside.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine halved grape tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Step 4: Heat 2 tablespoons avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot and shimmering, add chicken in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly golden brown.

Step 5: Pour the balsamic sauce over the chicken in the skillet. It should quickly start to simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.

Step 6: Remove the skillet from heat and spoon the tomato and mozzarella mixture over the chicken.

Step 7: Bake the skillet uncovered in the preheated oven for 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

Pound the chicken breasts evenly to ensure they cook uniformly and stay juicy.

Use fresh mozzarella pearls for a creamy texture, or substitute with shredded mozzarella if unavailable.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic sauce for a subtle spicy kick.

Serve this dish over cooked pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Bone-in chicken can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the balsamic sauce can be whisked together a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before cooking for best results.