Name: One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cooking spray; 6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1/2 cup zesty Italian dressing (fat-free is great); 1¼ pounds chicken tenderloins or breasts; 2 heads broccoli; 1 cup baby carrots; 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Fresh parsley (optional); Salt and pepper (optional)

A sumptuous and effortless meal, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken features tender chicken breasts bathed in a tangy-sweet balsamic-honey sauce, accompanied by juicy tomatoes and melted mozzarella. All prepared on a single sheet pan for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless preparation: Everything cooks together on one pan—no need for multiple pots or skillets.
Flavor-packed: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey and Dijon mustard creates a rich, glossy sauce that coats the chicken.
Crowd-pleasing: Juicy tomatoes burst with sweetness in the oven, while fresh mozzarella adds a creamy finish.
Versatile: Serve it alongside rice, crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Balsamic vinegar
Honey
Olive oil or avocado oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Italian seasoning
Dijon mustard
Grape tomatoes, halved
Fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
Fresh basil, finely chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

directions

Preheat the oven to 400 °F (200 °C).
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning and Dijon mustard until smooth.
Season the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a lightly oiled baking dish or sheet pan. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Coat and arrange: Pour half of the sauce over the chicken, turning each breast to ensure even coverage. Scatter the halved grape tomatoes around the chicken.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C) and the tomatoes are softened.
Add the cheese: Remove the pan from the oven and top each chicken breast with fresh mozzarella balls. Return to the oven for an additional 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is just melted.
Garnish and serve: Drizzle the remaining balsamic sauce over the chicken, sprinkle with chopped basil, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–28 minutes
Total time: Approximately 35–38 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: Arrange asparagus spears, sliced bell peppers or zucchini around the chicken before baking.
Use chicken thighs: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for breasts; adjust baking time to 25–30 minutes.
Spicy kick: Stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sauce for subtle heat.
Herb swap: Replace basil with chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a different aromatic profile.
Creamy finish: Stir in a tablespoon of mascarpone or cream cheese into the sauce before baking.

storage/reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat to 350 °F (175 °C), transfer chicken (with sauce) to a baking dish, cover loosely with foil and heat for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

What type of balsamic vinegar is best for this recipe?

Select a good-quality aged balsamic vinegar for balanced sweetness and acidity. Avoid commercial “balsamic glazes” as they may be overly sweet.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes. Whisk the sauce ingredients together up to one day in advance and refrigerate in a sealed container. Bring to room temperature before using.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of each breast; it should read 165 °F (74 °C).

Can I use bone-in chicken pieces?

You can, though baking time will increase to 35–40 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).

What can I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, provided that your Dijon mustard contains no gluten additives. Always check labels if you have dietary restrictions.

How do I prevent the mozzarella from over-melting?

Add the cheese only in the final 2–3 minutes of baking to achieve soft melting without turning it into a puddle.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Arrange chicken and tomatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air-fry at 380 °F (193 °C) for 12–15 minutes, then add mozzarella and cook 1–2 more minutes.

What if I don’t have fresh basil?

Substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil added to the sauce, and garnish with parsley or chives after baking.

How do I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?

Scale down the ingredient quantities proportionally. Be mindful that baking time may remain similar; check doneness by temperature.

Conclusion

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the epitome of simple elegance in home cooking. Its harmonious blend of tangy-sweet sauce, tender chicken and vibrant tomatoes makes it a winner for weeknight dinners and casual entertaining alike. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it is destined to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the convenience and savor every bite!