If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and comes together in just one pan, the Balsamic Glazed Chicken Caprese Skillet is exactly what you need. This vibrant skillet meal combines juicy chicken breasts with sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all brought to life by a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. It’s an effortless weeknight dinner that feels elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for any night of the week. Plus, the skillet method keeps everything juicy and full of flavor, making this a recipe you’ll want to add to your regular rotation.
Top Reasons to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken Caprese Skillet
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this skillet dinner is perfect for busy evenings when you want something wholesome without fuss.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup thanks to cooking everything in one skillet, saving you time and effort.
- Fresh, Vibrant Flavors: The combination of balsamic vinegar, sweet honey, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella makes every bite exciting.
- Healthy and Balanced: Lean chicken breasts paired with fresh produce create a nutritious meal packed with protein and vitamins.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different veggies or served alongside your favorite side dishes.
What We’re Using
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and creating a golden crust on the chicken.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and acidity.
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, drained: Creamy, melty cheese that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Brings a bright, herbal note to the dish.
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar: The key ingredient for a rich, tangy glaze.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the balsamic with a touch of sweetness.
Equipment & Tools
- Large skillet: A 10-12 inch skillet works best for even cooking and plenty of space.
- Tongs or spatula: For flipping the chicken breasts without tearing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To get the balsamic glaze just right.
- Knife and cutting board: For prepping tomatoes and basil.
- Small bowl: To whisk together the balsamic vinegar and honey.
Mastering Balsamic Glazed Chicken Caprese Skillet: How-To
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step ensures they get a beautiful golden sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Balsamic Glaze
Lower the heat to medium. Add the balsamic vinegar and honey to the skillet. Stir and let the mixture simmer gently, reducing slightly and thickening into a syrupy glaze. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Chicken
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, stirring them into the glaze to soften slightly. Nestle the chicken breasts back into the pan, spooning some glaze over the top. Cover the skillet and let everything cook together for another 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken finishes cooking.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella and Basil
Scatter the fresh mozzarella balls over the chicken and tomatoes. Cover again just long enough for the cheese to soften and get slightly melty, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped basil over the top for a fresh burst of flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this skillet meal warm straight from the pan, spooning extra balsamic glaze and tomatoes over the chicken. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the luscious sauce. For a comforting twist, try pairing it with the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Noodle Skillet or the Buttery Herb Chicken And Gnocchi Skillet for more skillet-inspired meals.
Swap Guide
- Chicken breasts: Swap for boneless turkey breasts for a lean alternative.
- Cherry tomatoes: Substitute with grape tomatoes or diced Roma tomatoes.
- Fresh mozzarella balls: Use sliced fresh mozzarella or burrata if available.
- Fresh basil: Try fresh oregano or parsley for a different herbaceous twist.
- Balsamic vinegar: Use red wine vinegar with a little extra honey for similar tang and sweetness.
- Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives to balance acidity.
Testing Timeline
- Initial preparation and seasoning of chicken – 5 minutes
- First sear of chicken breasts – 12 minutes total (6 minutes per side)
- Glaze reduction and tomato softening – 7 minutes
- Finishing with mozzarella melting and basil garnish – 5 minutes
- Total cook time – Approximately 30 minutes from start to finish
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the balsamic glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For meal prep, cook the chicken breasts fully, then assemble the skillet with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil just before reheating.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken moist and the cheese melty.
- The glaze can be warmed separately and spooned over the chicken to refresh flavors.
Quick Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and remain juicy. Just adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Is it okay to use bottled balsamic glaze instead of making it?
While bottled balsamic glaze can work in a pinch, making your own with balsamic vinegar and honey ensures a fresher, more balanced flavor without added sugars or preservatives.
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Yes! Sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach would complement the dish nicely. Add them when you add the tomatoes to ensure they cook through but stay vibrant.
What’s the best way to serve this skillet?
This meal shines when served hot, straight from the skillet, alongside a crisp green salad or some garlic bread. For a heartier plate, consider pairing it with the Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Garlic Potatoes.
Reader Favorites
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Noodle Skillet – A creamy, comforting skillet meal loaded with tender chicken and cheesy noodles.
- Buttery Herb Chicken And Gnocchi Skillet – Pillowy gnocchi paired with juicy chicken in a fragrant herb butter sauce.
- Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken Garlic Potatoes – A simple yet flavorful sheet pan dinner with crispy potatoes and zesty chicken.
Final Bite
The Balsamic Glazed Chicken Caprese Skillet is a vibrant, quick-cooking dish that combines the best of fresh ingredients and bold flavors in one simple skillet. It’s perfect for anyone who loves the classic Caprese combo but wants a protein-packed, satisfying meal. The tangy-sweet balsamic glaze ties everything together beautifully, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your weeknight dinner lineup.
Share on Pinterest
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Caprese Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden-brown and nearly cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium. Add balsamic vinegar and honey to the skillet. Stir and let simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until thickened into a syrupy glaze.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, stirring into the glaze to soften slightly. Nestle chicken breasts back in, spoon glaze over top. Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes to meld flavors and finish cooking chicken.
- Scatter fresh mozzarella balls over chicken and tomatoes. Cover for about 2 minutes until cheese softens and melts. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped basil on top.
- Serve warm straight from the skillet with extra balsamic glaze and tomatoes. Pairs well with a green salad or crusty bread.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently in a skillet.
- Swap chicken breasts with boneless turkey breasts or thighs for variation.
- Add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach when adding tomatoes for extra nutrition.
- Make the balsamic glaze ahead and refrigerate for up to one week.
- Use bottled balsamic glaze if short on time, but homemade is fresher and more balanced.
