If you are searching for a meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavor yet incredibly simple to prepare, look no further than the One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe. This dish is the perfect harmony of tangy balsamic glaze, juicy chicken breasts, sweet grape tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all coming together to create a colorful, satisfying plate. Using just one pan, you get a gorgeous combination of textures and tastes that feels elegant but cooks up in no time. It’s a fantastic go-to for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining when you want something impressive without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of fresh, quality ingredients that make all the difference. Each component plays a critical role, from the balsamic vinegar’s bright acidity to the rich creaminess of mozzarella, working together for a dish that’s as delicious as it is visually inviting.
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, lean and perfect for soaking up the balsamic flavors.
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a lovely tanginess that balances sweetness and acidity.
- 2 Tbsp honey: Brings just the right amount of natural sweetness to complement the vinegar.
- 8 oz grape tomatoes: These burst with juicy freshness and a pop of color when baked.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls: Melt into creamy pockets throughout the dish for irresistible richness.
- 2 garlic cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the overall flavor, giving it that home-cooked depth.
- 2 Tbsp oil (avocado or olive): Provides a healthy fat base for searing the chicken and melding flavors.
- Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant herbal note and bright green color, finishing the dish beautifully.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- Black pepper: Gives a mild heat and aromatic boost that ties everything together.
How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by warming your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps achieve a perfect balance of tender chicken and roasted tomatoes, concentrating the flavors just right.
Step 2: Whisk the Balsamic Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a glossy, well-incorporated sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully and infuse it with rich, tangy sweetness.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato and Mozzarella Mixture
Halve your grape tomatoes and toss them with the fresh mozzarella balls and chopped basil. Season gently with salt and pepper so every bite bursts with savory freshness, melting creaminess, and herbal brightness.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat a drizzle of oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Pat your chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper. Lay them gently in the pan and sear each side until golden brown, locking in juices and creating a beautiful crust that makes this dish so satisfying.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Tomato-Mozzarella Topping
Pour the balsamic sauce over the seared chicken, letting it coat every piece. Then, scatter the tomato and mozzarella mixture on top and around the chicken in the skillet, so they roast together and the flavors meld in the oven.
Step 6: Bake Until Perfect
Place your skillet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 18 to 23 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked yet juicy. Once done, remove the pan and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in all those delicious juices.
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top just before serving add a fragrant burst that complements the balsamic glaze flawlessly. A light drizzle of extra balsamic reduction can also amp up the flavor and appearance, making your plate look restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as garlic mashed potatoes or a fluffy quinoa salad. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans bring a lovely crunch and freshness that harmonize with the sweetness of the tomatoes and balsamic vinegar.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the chicken straight from the skillet at the table, allowing guests to scoop up the tomatoes and melted mozzarella alongside. You could also slice the chicken into medallions and arrange them over a bed of lightly dressed arugula for a sophisticated touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken retains its moisture well, and the flavors continue to develop overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to make this recipe ahead in larger batches, it freezes beautifully. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This prevents the mozzarella from becoming rubbery and helps maintain that fresh-roasted texture of the tomatoes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs work well and tend to be more forgiving, staying moist and tender with the balsamic sauce. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
Is fresh mozzarella necessary for this recipe?
Fresh mozzarella is ideal because of its creamy texture and mild flavor, perfectly balancing the tangy balsamic and sweet tomatoes. However, if needed, you can substitute with shredded mozzarella, though the texture won’t be quite the same.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the balsamic sauce a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. This actually helps deepen the flavors. Just bring it to room temperature before pouring over the chicken to ensure even cooking.
What’s the best way to check if the chicken is cooked?
Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature is the most reliable method. Aim for 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and juiciness. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken to confirm the juices run clear.
Can I add other vegetables to the pan?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition. Just be mindful of their cooking times to keep everything perfectly roasted.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of simple ingredients that produces extraordinary results, especially when you want a fuss-free meal full of fresh flavors. Give it a try soon—you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again because it’s just that comforting and delicious!
Print
One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe features tender, seared chicken breasts baked in a flavorful balsamic-honey glaze with fresh grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil. It’s a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, combining savory, tangy, and sweet flavors in one skillet for minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 2 Tbsp oil (avocado or olive)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Italian seasoning (about 1 tsp)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Veggies and Cheese
- 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- Fresh basil, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken after searing.
- Make the Balsamic Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined, creating a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Prepare Tomato and Mozzarella Mixture: Toss the halved grape tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls with chopped basil, then season with salt and pepper for freshness and flavor balance.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, to lock in juices and add flavor.
- Add Sauce and Toppings: Pour the prepared balsamic sauce over the seared chicken, then evenly scatter the tomato-mozzarella mixture on top around the chicken.
- Bake Until Done: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 18–23 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
- Using an oven-safe skillet is crucial for seamless transition from stovetop to oven.
- Fresh mozzarella balls can be substituted with sliced mozzarella if desired.
- Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- For added flavor, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the finished dish before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
