There are nights when just the thought of dirtying three pans makes me want to throw in the towel and order takeout. That’s exactly why I love One Pan Balsamic Chicken—it’s hearty, flavorful, and the cleanup is so easy you’ll actually have time to kick your feet up (or, let’s be honest, fold that mountain of laundry).

If you’re looking for dinner ideas that don’t feel like a chore, this recipe will quickly become your new best friend. It’s one of those meals that looks fancy enough to serve when company drops by but is simple enough for the laziest of lazy dinners.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Quick & easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
One dish wonder: Fewer dishes, less stress, and more time for you.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist tender chicken with that tangy-sweet balsamic glaze.
Versatile: Works for meal prep, casual dinner meals, or impressing your in-laws.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken breasts or thighs – The star of the show; juicy and tender.
Balsamic vinegar – For that sweet and tangy kick.
Olive oil – Helps brown the chicken beautifully.
Garlic – Because what’s a good quick dinner without garlic?
Honey or brown sugar – Balances the vinegar’s sharpness.
Cherry tomatoes – Adds a burst of color and freshness.
Red onion – Caramelizes while cooking and deepens the flavor.
Italian herbs – A cozy mix of oregano, thyme, or basil.
Fresh parsley – Optional garnish that makes everything look like you tried harder than you did.

Step-by-Step: Making One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Sear the chicken. Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown the chicken on both sides until golden. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked through—you’ll finish it later.
Add the flavor. Toss in garlic, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Let them soften and mingle with the chicken juices.
Make the glaze. Stir in balsamic vinegar and honey (or sugar) and let it bubble into a glossy sauce. Your kitchen will smell like heaven on a rainy day.
Finish cooking. Reduce heat, cover, and let the chicken cook through while soaking up all that flavor.
Serve it up. Garnish with parsley and serve straight from the pan. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Nova’s Tips for Success

Lazy night hack: Skip chopping fresh garlic and just use the jarred stuff. No judgment here.
Meal prep magic: This dish reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.
Customize it: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra veggies.

A Little Story from My Kitchen

The first time I made this recipe was after a long day of teaching a cooking class. I was exhausted but still wanted something homemade. I threw everything into one skillet, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. My husband declared it “company-worthy,” and now it’s one of our regular quick dinners.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Thighs tend to stay juicier and are perfect for lazy dinners.

How do I store leftovers?
Pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently so the chicken doesn’t dry out.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s one of those dinner meals that tastes even better the next day because the flavors have had time to mingle.

Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, your spouse, or just yourself, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken will make you feel like a kitchen hero without all the effort. Next time you’re stuck wondering what to make, skip the stress and go straight for this skillet favorite.

One Pan Balsamic Chicken That’ll Save Your Weeknight

Author: Nova
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Skillet-seared chicken in a glossy balsamic-garlic glaze with burst cherry tomatoes and sweet red onion. One pan, weeknight-fast, and downright delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 pounds (680 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, patted dry

1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

2 cups (300 g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 cup (80 ml) balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season chicken on both sides with 3/4 teaspoon salt and the black pepper.

2. Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high; add olive oil. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden (it will finish cooking in the sauce). Transfer to a plate.

3. Reduce heat to medium. Add red onion and a pinch of the remaining salt; sauté 3 minutes until starting to soften.

4. Stir in tomatoes and cook 2–3 minutes until they begin to burst.

5. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

6. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon, Italian seasoning, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt; pour into skillet. Scrape up browned bits and simmer 1 minute.

7. Return chicken (and any juices) to the pan. Spoon sauce over the pieces, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 5–7 minutes, flipping once, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer uncovered 1–2 more minutes.

9. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper (if using) and parsley. Serve straight from the skillet with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Notes

Swap option: Use 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; sear 4–5 minutes per side, then simmer to 175°F for extra tenderness.

Veggie add-ins: sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers can go in with the onions.

Make-ahead: Mix the balsamic, honey, Dijon, and spices up to 3 days ahead; refrigerate in a jar.

Leftovers: Refrigerate up to 3 days; reheat gently over low heat with a splash of water.

Gluten-free note: Use certified GF Dijon if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet, One-Pan
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast + sauce/veg
Calories: 390
Sugar: 14 g
Sodium: 650 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 150 mg

Keywords: One Pan Balsamic Chicken, dinner ideas, meals, lazy dinners, chicken, dinner meals, quick dinner