One Pan Balsamic Chicken

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If there’s one recipe I keep coming back to for its ease, bold flavor, and minimal cleanup, it’s One Pan Balsamic Chicken. The way the tangy balsamic glaze caramelizes and coats the juicy chicken and vegetables in one swoop is pure magic. It’s one of those dishes where the ingredients do all the heavy lifting, leaving you with a restaurant-quality meal without ever having to leave your kitchen.

I stumbled upon this combination out of pure necessity—a fridge half full, a clock ticking close to dinner time, and a craving for something comforting yet sophisticated. After just one attempt, I was hooked. It became a staple in my rotation, one I even make when guests are over because it tastes like it took hours, yet it comes together in a flash. It’s deeply savory, with just enough sweetness from the balsamic to elevate everything it touches.

One of the best parts? Everything cooks in one pan, soaking up each other’s flavors in the process. From the tender chicken breasts to the lightly charred tomatoes and onions, every bite is infused with balsamic goodness. Plus, less time scrubbing pans means more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones.

For other easy but flavor-packed meals like this, you might love checking out my Marry Me Chicken Pasta, Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, or the classic Shipwreck Dinner.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Balsamic Chicken

This recipe is a dream for weeknight warriors who want dinner to be quick, satisfying, and cleanup-free. The deep, rich balsamic glaze feels luxurious but comes together with pantry staples. It’s versatile enough to serve on its own, over rice, or with crusty bread. And while it impresses like a gourmet meal, it couldn’t be easier to pull off. Perfect for busy families, date night in, or anytime you want something comforting without the chaos.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts: These are the protein star of the dish, tender and juicy when cooked just right. Their mild flavor soaks up the balsamic glaze perfectly.

Cherry tomatoes: They bring brightness and a burst of natural sweetness. Once roasted, they slightly blister and release their juices, adding depth to the dish.

Red onion: Sliced into wedges, red onion adds sharpness and sweetness as it caramelizes during cooking.

Garlic cloves: Whole or crushed, they infuse the pan with robust flavor and balance the sweet and tangy glaze.

Balsamic vinegar: The essential ingredient that gives this dish its signature tangy-sweet richness. It reduces into a syrupy glaze that clings to everything.

Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and coat the vegetables, helping everything brown beautifully.

Honey: Just a touch is enough to round out the acidity of the balsamic and add a subtle sweetness.

Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs like oregano and basil that enhances the savory depth of the dish.

Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that ensure every ingredient shines.

Fresh basil (optional): Torn and sprinkled on top before serving for a final burst of freshness.

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Slice the red onion into wedges and keep the cherry tomatoes whole.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, heat a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil and toss in the red onion and garlic cloves. Cook for about 3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Deglaze

Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon some of the balsamic mixture over the top. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F and bake for 15-18 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, let rest a few minutes, and sprinkle with fresh basil before serving. Spoon the balsamic glaze and vegetables over the chicken for maximum flavor in every bite.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you don’t have chicken breasts, boneless thighs are a flavorful alternative and stay tender and juicy in the oven. You can also swap out cherry tomatoes for grape tomatoes or even chopped roma tomatoes in a pinch.

For a vegetarian take, use thick slices of portobello mushrooms or eggplant as the main. They absorb the balsamic glaze wonderfully and pair well with the same aromatics.

If red onions aren’t your thing, try sweet yellow onions or even shallots for a milder touch. And if you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze.

Instead of honey, maple syrup also complements the tanginess of the vinegar beautifully, bringing a slightly different depth of sweetness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this dish over creamy mashed potatoes to catch every drop of that rich balsamic glaze. It’s also perfect over fluffy white rice, farro, or a bed of garlicky quinoa.

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, pair it with roasted cauliflower or steamed green beans. It also pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread, ideal for soaking up every bit of the tangy sauce.

A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or balsamic reduction makes a fresh and zesty side, creating a full, balanced plate.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, spooning extra sauce over the top to keep the chicken moist.

If you’re planning ahead, this dish freezes well. Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the oven until heated through.

FAQs

How do I keep One Pan Balsamic Chicken from drying out?

Searing the chicken first and finishing it in the oven ensures juicy results. Also, spooning the balsamic glaze over the top helps retain moisture.

Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can sear the chicken and prep the vegetables ahead. Assemble everything in the skillet, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

What kind of balsamic vinegar is best for One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Use a good-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor. Aged balsamic has a natural sweetness and depth that really enhances the glaze.

Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?

Yes, it’s a well-balanced dish with lean protein and vegetables. You can control the amount of added sweetener and oil to keep it lighter.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re a fan of this easy yet flavor-packed dish, you’ll definitely want to try my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for another one-pan wonder with bold, comforting flavors. You might also enjoy One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles, a simple meal that comes together effortlessly.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Loved this One Pan Balsamic Chicken? Don’t forget to pin it to your favorite dinner board on Pinterest so you can easily find it again. Share it on Facebook or with your cooking friends—they’ll thank you for the flavor bomb. Whether you cook it for your family or a dinner date, this is one dish that’s worth sharing far and wide.

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