This one pan balsamic chicken is the perfect weeknight dinner solution—tangy, slightly sweet, and bursting with bold flavors. Featuring juicy seared chicken simmered in a rich balsamic glaze with garlic, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, this dish comes together quickly and effortlessly in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll appreciate how simple yet flavorful this dish is. With minimal ingredients and only one skillet, cleanup is easy and the results are consistently delicious. The combination of balsamic vinegar and honey creates a glossy glaze that’s both savory and sweet, complementing the chicken perfectly. It’s versatile, wholesome, and ideal for pairing with a variety of sides.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
salt and pepper
olive oil
red onion, sliced
cherry tomatoes
garlic, minced
balsamic vinegar
honey or maple syrup
dried basil or Italian seasoning
optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
directions
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and dried herbs. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the chicken until it is fully cooked and glazed.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 340 kcal (approximate)
Variations
- Use bone-in chicken: Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for bone-in thighs or drumsticks.
- Add vegetables: Include bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a more veggie-packed version.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the balsamic glaze.
- Dairy-free creamy version: Stir in a spoonful of coconut cream at the end for a luscious twist.
- Grilled version: Grill the chicken separately and toss it in the balsamic sauce just before serving.
storage/reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, spooning some of the sauce over the top to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe and often remain more tender during cooking.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it great for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
What can I serve with balsamic chicken?
Pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I substitute the balsamic vinegar?
You can use a mix of red wine vinegar and a touch of brown sugar in a pinch, but the flavor will vary slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all your ingredients (especially the balsamic vinegar) are certified gluten-free.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance and reheat before serving. The flavors deepen as it sits.
What type of skillet works best?
A heavy-bottomed skillet such as cast iron or stainless steel ensures even searing and cooking.
Can I omit the sweetener?
You can reduce or omit the honey/maple syrup, though the glaze will be more tangy than sweet.
How do I thicken the sauce if needed?
Let the sauce simmer a bit longer or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water to reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
One pan balsamic chicken is a flavorful and effortless meal that brings together simple ingredients for maximum impact. With a rich, tangy glaze and juicy, tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your dinner rotation. It’s quick, customizable, and ideal for both busy weeknights and elegant dining at home.
Print
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a tangy, sweet, and savory dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes! Juicy chicken breasts seared to perfection, simmered with cherry tomatoes, garlic, and red onions in a balsamic glaze—perfect for a quick weeknight meal bursting with flavor. Keywords: balsamic chicken recipe, one pan chicken dinner, 30 minute meals, easy balsamic glaze chicken, cherry tomato chicken skillet.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 small red onion, sliced
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2 cups cherry tomatoes
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
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2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
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1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
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Optional: Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Notes
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Chicken thighs offer a juicier bite, but breasts work great for a leaner option.
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Add spinach or zucchini to bulk up the veggies.
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Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan Sauté
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
