This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful blend of tender chicken breasts infused with the rich, tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar, topped with melted mozzarella and juicy grape tomatoes.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, shredded
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• Sea salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly.
3. In another bowl, mix shredded mozzarella, halved grape tomatoes, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and evenly distribute the mozzarella-tomato-basil mixture over the chicken breasts.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
8. Let the dish rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 608 kcal
• Protein: 63 g
• Carbohydrates: 19 g
• Fat: 30 g

What Makes This Recipe Special?

One of the biggest reasons this balsamic chicken recipe stands out is its simplicity. With just a few common pantry staples, you can create a dish that tastes like something from a gourmet restaurant. The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and Dijon mustard creates a slightly tangy yet sweet glaze that perfectly coats the chicken, adding depth to every bite. The use of fresh mozzarella and grape tomatoes gives the dish a caprese-inspired twist, making it even more appealing to those who love fresh Mediterranean flavors. This recipe is also highly versatile. While it is delicious as written, you can easily modify it to suit your personal preferences. You can swap out the mozzarella for feta or parmesan for a different cheese profile, or add other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional content. Another great thing about this recipe is that it works well with different cooking methods. While it is typically made in a skillet and finished in the oven, you can also grill the chicken and add the balsamic glaze toward the end for a smoky, grilled variation.

Health Benefits of One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Besides its incredible taste, this dish is packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken itself is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall health. With each serving offering around 63 grams of protein, it helps keep you full and satisfied while also supporting a healthy metabolism. Balsamic vinegar, one of the key ingredients in this recipe, is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to several health benefits, including improved digestion and better heart health. The vinegar helps to break down fats and proteins, making this dish easy to digest. Additionally, it contains acetic acid, which has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels. Grape tomatoes are another healthy component of this meal. They are high in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health. They also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and reduces inflammation in the body. Mozzarella cheese, while often considered indulgent, provides a good amount of calcium and protein. It is lower in sodium compared to many other cheeses, making it a better choice for those watching their salt intake.

Pairing Suggestions

One Pan Balsamic Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent choice. The crisp texture and refreshing taste of a salad contrast beautifully with the rich, savory chicken. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts also work well, adding more color and nutrients to your meal. If you prefer a heartier accompaniment, you can serve this dish with whole grain rice, quinoa, or couscous. These options provide additional fiber and help create a well-rounded meal. Mashed or roasted sweet potatoes also complement the flavors of the balsamic glaze, offering a hint of natural sweetness that enhances the overall dish. For those who love bread, a warm crusty baguette or garlic bread is a great addition, perfect for soaking up any extra balsamic sauce left on the plate.

Why One Pan Meals Are a Game-Changer

One pan meals have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. They simplify the cooking process while minimizing the number of dishes you have to clean afterward. When everything is cooked in a single pan, the ingredients have the chance to blend together beautifully, creating layers of flavor that you might not achieve with separate cooking methods. This recipe, in particular, benefits from the one-pan method because the balsamic glaze coats the chicken evenly while the tomatoes soften and release their juices, mixing with the sauce to enhance the dish’s overall depth. The cheese melts perfectly over the chicken, creating a rich, gooey topping that is hard to resist. Another advantage of one pan meals is that they are perfect for meal prepping. You can easily make a larger batch of this balsamic chicken and store the leftovers for later in the week. It reheats well, maintaining its flavor and texture without becoming dry or overcooked.

Tips for Success

To ensure your One Pan Balsamic Chicken turns out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips. First, make sure you use boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are pounded to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly, preventing some parts from being overcooked while others remain underdone. Letting the chicken marinate for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking can also enhance the flavor. While this step is not required, it allows the balsamic mixture to penetrate the chicken, making it even more flavorful. When searing the chicken, be sure not to overcrowd the pan. Giving each piece enough space ensures that they brown properly, creating a nice crust that locks in moisture. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to maintain the right temperature in the pan. Using fresh, high-quality mozzarella makes a big difference in this recipe. Fresh mozzarella has a smoother texture and melts beautifully, adding to the dish’s appeal. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may prevent it from melting as smoothly, so it’s best to shred the cheese yourself for the best results.

Conclusion

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a fantastic meal that combines ease, nutrition, and incredible flavor all in one dish. Its simple yet sophisticated taste makes it a go-to dinner option for busy individuals and families who want a wholesome, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy balsamic glaze, and melted mozzarella creates a dish that is both comforting and gourmet. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it is also packed with essential nutrients, making it a great choice for those looking to eat healthily without sacrificing taste.