Homemade One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Looking for a dinner that’s both impressive and effortless? This Homemade One Pan Balsamic Chicken delivers bold flavor, minimal cleanup, and restaurant-quality presentation—all in under 30 minutes. Juicy seared chicken breasts are bathed in a rich balsamic glaze, paired with bursting cherry tomatoes, and topped with melty mozzarella and fresh basil. The result is a meal that’s elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for weeknight cooking.

One-pan meals like this are a lifesaver for busy evenings—they let you enjoy a homemade, flavorful dinner without juggling multiple pots and pans. With a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction complementing the creamy mozzarella, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in 25 minutes with minimal prep.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
• Bold, Balanced Flavor: Sweet balsamic glaze, savory chicken, and creamy mozzarella.
• Fresh and Healthy: Loaded with protein, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic basil.
• Versatile: Perfect for casual weeknights, date nights, or small dinner parties.

Ingredients Breakdown

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Main Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella (sliced or mini balls)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes

Sauce & Seasoning

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (non-stick or cast iron preferred)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula
• Lid for skillet
• Small bowl for garlic prep

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This ensures they sear properly without steaming. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning for maximum flavor.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside. Searing locks in juices and gives the chicken a flavorful crust.

3. Prepare the Balsamic Reduction

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and cook minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar and allow it to reduce for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vinegar will thicken slightly and intensify in flavor.

4. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes

Add the cherry tomatoes to the balsamic reduction. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to burst. This releases their natural sweetness, complementing the tangy balsamic.

5. Combine Chicken and Tomatoes

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling each breast among the tomatoes. This allows the chicken to soak up the balsamic flavor while keeping it juicy.

6. Add Mozzarella

Top the chicken with slices or mini balls of mozzarella. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3–5 minutes, until the cheese is melted but the chicken remains tender. Using a lid ensures even melting without overcooking the meat.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle torn fresh basil over the top for a bright, aromatic finish. Serve immediately with the balsamic tomatoes spooned over the chicken for maximum flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Balsamic Vinegar Quality: Use a thick, slightly sweet balsamic vinegar for best results.
• Resting Step: Allow the chicken to rest briefly after searing to lock in juices.
• Cheese Variations: Try provolone or fontina for a different cheese profile.
• Tomato Options: Cherry or grape tomatoes work best; sliced larger tomatoes can be substituted but may require extra cooking time.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic reduction for subtle heat.
• One-Pan Meal: Serve over rice, quinoa, or pasta to make it a complete dinner.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish has a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, savory seared chicken, and creamy, melty mozzarella. The fresh cherry tomatoes add juiciness, while the basil brings a fragrant, herbaceous note.

Side Dish Suggestions

• Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
• Sautéed green beans or asparagus
• Light salad with lemon vinaigrette

Nutritional Overview

Per Serving (1 chicken breast with tomatoes and mozzarella):

• Calories: 330 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fat: 18 g (Saturated Fat: 7 g)
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg
• Sodium: 410 mg

This dish is high in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbs, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Chicken: Can be pre-seasoned up to 2 hours ahead.
• Balsamic Reduction: Prepare in advance and reheat before adding chicken and tomatoes.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly as thighs cook faster.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. All ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

3. What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil can be used, but add it during cooking rather than as a garnish.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, sear the chicken and prepare the balsamic reduction in advance; combine and melt cheese just before serving.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
You can freeze the cooked chicken and tomatoes separately. Reheat gently and add fresh mozzarella before serving.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep	10 minutes
Cook	15 minutes
Total	25 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve directly from the skillet for rustic presentation.
• Plate with balsamic reduction spooned over chicken.
• Garnish with additional basil for color and aroma.

Recipe Variations

1. Caprese Balsamic Chicken: Add sliced tomatoes under mozzarella for a caprese-inspired twist.
2. Mushroom Balsamic Chicken: Sauté mushrooms along with tomatoes for earthy flavor.
3. Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Sprinkle parmesan over the melted mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
4. Spicy Balsamic Chicken: Add red pepper flakes to balsamic reduction for heat.

Ingredient Spotlight

Balsamic Vinegar

High-quality balsamic vinegar adds depth, sweetness, and acidity. Look for thick, aged varieties for a glaze-like consistency.

Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes burst during cooking, releasing natural sweetness that balances the tangy balsamic. Use fresh and firm tomatoes for best results.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Pat chicken dry to ensure proper searing.
• Use a lid to melt mozzarella evenly without overcooking chicken.
• Let balsamic vinegar reduce properly for concentrated flavor.
• Slice mozzarella thinly or use mini balls for even melting.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Short-Term Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet on low heat to preserve chicken juiciness.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and tomatoes separately; add fresh mozzarella and basil when reheating.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	330 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbohydrates	8 g
Fat	18 g
Saturated Fat	7 g
Fiber	1 g
Cholesterol	85 mg
Sodium	410 mg

Dietary Notes: Gluten-free, high-protein, low-carb-friendly.

Expanded Conclusion

This Homemade One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a perfect balance of ease and elegance. Juicy seared chicken, sweet and tangy balsamic reduction, bursting cherry tomatoes, and melty mozzarella create a dinner that’s bursting with flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, special occasions, or last-minute entertaining.

With minimal cleanup, bold flavor, and beautiful presentation, this one-pan meal is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen. Serve it with a simple side, enjoy every bite, and share it with friends and family—they’ll be asking for seconds.

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