If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself, you are going to adore this One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe. It blends the sweet tang of balsamic vinegar with juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, all perfectly nestled atop tender, golden chicken breasts. The magic of this dish lies not only in its rich combination of flavors but also in how everything comes together effortlessly in just one pan, making weeknight meals both delicious and stress-free. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it will secure a permanent spot in your culinary rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but pack a punch of fresh and balanced flavors that make this dish sing. Each element contributes a unique touch of taste, texture, and color to create a delicious and eye-catching meal you’ll want to share.
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar: Offers a rich, tangy base that brightens the whole dish.
- 2 Tbsp. honey: Adds a gentle sweetness to balance the vinegar’s sharpness.
- 2 Tbsp. oil (avocado or olive): Essential for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a savory depth of flavor that elevates every bite.
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that complements the fresh basil and cheese.
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle tang and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juicy sweetness that lightly roasts in the oven.
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls): Melts into creamy pockets of richness.
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil: Adds a fresh herbaceous note and vibrant green color.
- 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded even: Ensures even cooking and tender results.
- 2 Tbsp. avocado or other high-heat oil: Perfect for searing chicken without burning.
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper: To season and bring everything together.
How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Sauce
Start by whisking together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, marrying sweet, tangy, and savory notes that will soak into the chicken and bubble up beautifully during baking. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste; this simple mixture sets the tone for the entire recipe.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes, Mozzarella, and Basil
In a separate bowl, gently toss the halved grape tomatoes with the fresh mozzarella balls and chopped basil. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This fresh topping will roast alongside the chicken, softening the tomatoes and melting the mozzarella into a luscious, colorful crown that adds both creaminess and brightness.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Meanwhile, heat avocado or your chosen oil over medium-high heat in a large, oven-safe skillet. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season all over with salt and pepper. Place them in the hot skillet in a single layer and sear each side for 1 to 2 minutes until just golden. This initial browning locks in juices and creates those irresistible crispy edges.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
When the chicken is nicely seared, pour the prepared balsamic sauce over it. It should come to a gentle simmer—use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan, which flavors will enrich the sauce. Immediately remove the skillet from heat and top the chicken evenly with the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Pop the whole skillet into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 18 to 23 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender. Plus, the mozzarella will settle into its creamy place, ready to be devoured.
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation and flavor, sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the finished dish right before serving. A drizzle of extra balsamic reduction or a touch of freshly cracked black pepper adds a gourmet flair that will impress any guest or family member.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides like a crisp mixed greens salad, garlic roasted asparagus, or even creamy mashed potatoes. The juicy balsamic and melty mozzarella complement starchy or green sides, so feel free to get creative with whatever you have on hand.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, consider serving the chicken directly in the skillet it was baked in. It not only keeps everything warm but also showcases the colorful tomato and mozzarella topping that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. Alternatively, plate each portion topped with a little extra fresh basil and a lemon wedge for a zesty finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making leftovers even more delicious. Make sure to keep the tomatoes and mozzarella on top—they reheat nicely alongside the chicken.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce mixture, but it’s best to add fresh mozzarella and basil after reheating. Wrap tightly to avoid freezer burn, and consume within 1 to 2 months for the best taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat or in a 350-degree oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, to keep the chicken tender and the sauce luscious. Add fresh basil and mozzarella after reheating to revive that fresh, melty texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and have richer flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the balsamic sauce. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe is naturally gluten-free, as all ingredients are free of gluten. Just be sure to check your Dijon mustard label to confirm.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor and color, but if you only have dried, add it sparingly to the tomato mixture, and consider adding a pinch more to boost flavor.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the balsamic sauce, simmer it in a small saucepan before adding to the chicken until it reduces slightly. The honey also helps add some natural thickness and gloss.
What’s the best way to pound chicken breasts evenly?
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a gallon-size zip bag and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a meal that brings bright, fresh ingredients and hearty, comforting flavors together in one simple pan. The One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe is exactly that dish—easy to make, satisfying to eat, and beautiful to serve. Give it a try soon and watch it become one of your new all-time favorites for effortless, tasty dinners.
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One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful balsamic vinegar and honey sauce, topped with fresh grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil. It’s a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines tangy, sweet, and savory flavors all in one skillet, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Sauce 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
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
Tomato and Mozzarella
- 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh basil
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
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, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Season with kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste. Set the sauce aside.
- Mix tomato and mozzarella: In a separate bowl, toss the halved grape tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil. Season this mixture with kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste, and set aside.
- Preheat and sear chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil or another high-heat oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet until shimmering. Season the chicken breasts all over with kosher salt and fresh black pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, until they develop a light golden brown crust.
- Add sauce and simmer: Pour the prepared balsamic sauce over the chicken in the skillet. It should begin to simmer quickly. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate those flavors into the sauce. Remove the pan from the heat immediately after stirring.
- Add tomato and mozzarella topping: Evenly spoon the tomato and mozzarella mixture over the chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Bake the chicken: Place the skillet uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 23 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
- Rest and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken moist and flavorful.
Notes
- Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly.
- You can substitute fresh mozzarella with shredded mozzarella if fresh is unavailable.
- If you don’t have a large oven-safe skillet, transfer the chicken, sauce, and toppings to a baking dish before baking.
- For a lower fat version, you can reduce the amount of oil used for searing.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
