Description
Sizzling One Pan Balsamic Chicken brings Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table with minimal cleanup. Juicy chicken thighs caramelize in a rich balsamic glaze, creating a restaurant-worthy meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
Cheese and Tomatoes:
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- 8 ounces grape tomatoes, halved
Seasonings and Liquids:
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or other high-heat oil
- 2 tablespoons oil (such as avocado or olive oil)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Craft a tantalizing marinade by blending balsamic vinegar, golden honey, extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, aromatic Italian seasoning, zesty Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Gently combine halved cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella pearls, and torn fragrant basil leaves. Delicately season this vibrant mixture with a pinch of salt and a whisper of pepper.
- Preheat the oven to a precise 400°F (200°C), ensuring an optimal cooking environment.
- Warm of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Pat chicken breasts dry and generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side, developing a golden-brown crust that seals in succulent flavors.
- Pour the prepared balsamic marinade into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to deglaze and incorporate any caramelized bits clinging to the pan’s surface.
- Liberally sprinkle the tomato-mozzarella-basil medley over the chicken, creating a colorful and aromatic topping.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven and roast uncovered for 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, enabling the juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness before serving.
Notes
- Marinate chicken in advance for deeper flavor infusion and more tender meat.
- Swap fresh mozzarella with shredded for easier melting and more even coverage.
- Choose ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes to enhance the overall brightness of the dish.
- Cast iron skillet works best for achieving perfect caramelization and even heat distribution.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making meal prep a breeze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg