One-Pan Balsamic Chicken

This juicy one-pan balsamic chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection, then topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil before being baked to juicy perfection. With a delicious homemade balsamic sauce, this dish is ideal for a weeknight meal and pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 2 Tbsp. avocado or olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Mozzarella Topping:

• 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken:

• 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

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
2. Mix the Topping: In another bowl, toss together the halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
3. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 Tbsp. of avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then place it in the skillet. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
5. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared balsamic sauce over the chicken and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
6. Top and Bake: Remove the pan from heat, evenly distribute the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken, and place the skillet in the oven. Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite side dish!

Serving Suggestions

This one-pan balsamic chicken pairs well with various sides to soak up the delicious sauce:

• Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
• Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
• Egg Noodles
• Roasted Vegetables
• Quinoa

Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs?

Yes! Chicken thighs cook faster and tend to be juicier than chicken breasts. If using thighs, check for doneness after 7-10 minutes of baking.

Recipe Notes

• Mozzarella: If using ciliegine mozzarella (cherry-sized), cut them in half. If using mozzarella pearls, no cutting is needed.
• Chicken: Pound the chicken to even thickness for even cooking and tender results.

Enjoy this easy, flavorful one-pan balsamic chicken recipe any time of the year