Two goals in the first-half for Chelsea saw them edge Brighton and Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium.
Pedro's early opener for the Blues was soon added to by Eden Hazard's first-half strike, before Solly March got one back for the Seagulls in the second-half.
The win sees Chelsea go to within two points of third-placed Tottenham Hotspur, who also won this weekend.
Brighton remain in 13th, but comfortably above the drop zone as we approach Christmas.
How It Happened
Brighton came into this game looking to continue their decent record against the better teams at the Amex.
However, their hopes of achieving a result were quickly reduced when Pedro tapped in from an excellent Hazard run in the Brighton box.
Hazard then turned from provider to scorer, with a huge thanks to Willian who won the ball back and found the Belgian winger, who confidently slotted home.
Antonio Rudiger should have put the game beyond Brighton just before the break, as the German centre-back met Willian's corner, but couldn't guide his headed attempt on target.
It was a solid first-half from Chelsea, who, in truth, the way they played, were giving the host no chance at all.
It was almost 3-0 and game over for Brighton when Marcos Alonso's long-range strike smacked the woodwork after beating Mat Ryan.
Brighton gave themselves some hope after nearly seeing the game go away from them when March grabbed one back for the home team.
The Seagulls did their best to add some more pressure on the Chelsea defenders, but the Blues held on for a crucial three points down on the South Coast.
The Managers
Chris Hughton was pleased with his side's fighting spirit, but was disappointed that they left themselves too much to do.
"They had two chances in the first-half and scored two goals," Hughton explained. "We started the game well but you can't give them the leg up by going behind.
"Then you have to have a response in the second-half which we did in the second-half. If we get the one goal then anything can happen. I cannot fault the effort our players put in."
Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri praised the level of performance from the Blues' best player today, Hazard.
"I think that Hazard could have played better because his level is a very high level," Sarri said. "He can do more for him and for us.
"But I think after the two injuries, he lost the physical condition. Now he's improving. In one or two matches he'll be back at the top."