One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One pan balsamic chicken is the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines juicy chicken with a tangy balsamic glaze, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, making it both delicious and visually appealing. It’s suitable for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even entertaining guests. With minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pan method, you’ll love how easy this meal comes together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 45 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the chicken.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, pasta, or on its own for a healthy meal that fits various dietary preferences.
- One-Pan Cooking: Simplify your cleanup process with this all-in-one dish that minimizes the need for extra pots and pans.
- Family-Friendly: Kids will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your one pan balsamic chicken efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having these on hand will help you create this delicious meal with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large oven-safe skillet: This is key for browning the chicken and transferring it directly to the oven without having to switch dishes.
- Whisk: A whisk helps ensure that your sauce ingredients blend smoothly for a consistent flavor.
- Mixing bowls: These are essential for preparing different components of the recipe separately before combining them in the skillet.
- Wooden spoon: Use this to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the skillet for added flavor in your sauce.
Ingredients
One-pan balsamic chicken is made with simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.
For the Sauce
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp. honey
- 2 Tbsp. oil, such as avocado or olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
For the Chicken and Toppings
- 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
- 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard.
- Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture
- In a separate bowl, toss together grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and finely chopped basil.
- Season with salt and pepper as desired. Set aside.
Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F to ensure it’s hot when you add your chicken.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Once the pan is hot and oil is shimmering, place chicken in a single layer in the skillet.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.
- Pour in your prepared balsamic sauce mixture; it should come to a simmer quickly.
- Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Add Tomato Mixture & Bake
- Remove the skillet from heat immediately after adding sauce.
- Spread tomato mozzarella mixture evenly over chicken.
Step 6: Finish Cooking in Oven
Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165F).
After baking, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your one pan balsamic chicken as a delightful dinner option that’s sure to impress!
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One pan balsamic chicken is not only a delicious main dish but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this flavorful meal.
Serve with Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together a variety of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing side.
- Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with extra balsamic vinegar to complement the chicken.
Pair with Rice or Quinoa
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs adds a nice texture and flavor balance.
- Lemon Quinoa: Lightly seasoned quinoa with lemon zest enhances the dish’s brightness.
Complement with Bread
- Crusty Italian Bread: Serve slices with olive oil for dipping; it’s perfect for soaking up the balsamic sauce.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread can elevate your dining experience.
How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken
To ensure your one pan balsamic chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Evenly Sized Chicken Breasts: This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing helps retain its juices for a more flavorful dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your balsamic sauce before adding it to the pan; adjusting salt and pepper can greatly enhance flavor.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and basil will make a significant difference in taste compared to dried alternatives.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Pairing one pan balsamic chicken with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic suggestions.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds crunch and color to your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple steamed broccoli side is healthy and complements the richness of the chicken.
- Pasta Primavera: Colorful sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta provide a hearty, vibrant addition.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Oven-baked sweet potato wedges offer a sweet contrast to the tangy balsamic sauce.
- Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini rounds add freshness and a lovely charred flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making one-pan balsamic chicken can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the pounded chicken: Not pounding the chicken to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are even for consistent results.
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Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning the chicken can result in bland flavors. Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the dish’s taste.
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Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve a nice golden-brown color.
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Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes for juicier, tender meat.
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Rushing the sauce: Skipping the step of scraping up brown bits from the pan means losing flavor. Take your time to deglaze for a richer sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Label with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to avoid drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making one-pan balsamic chicken:
Can I use other types of vinegar?
You can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for different flavor profiles. However, expect variations in taste.
How do I customize one pan balsamic chicken?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also switch up herbs by using thyme or oregano instead of basil.
What should I serve with one pan balsamic chicken?
Pair this dish with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The flavors complement many side dishes well.
Is one pan balsamic chicken healthy?
Yes! This dish is packed with protein and uses wholesome ingredients. It fits well into a balanced diet when served with nutritious sides.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything except baking ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
How long does it take to cook one pan balsamic chicken?
The total cooking time is around 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner option.
Final Thoughts
One-pan balsamic chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights while allowing room for customization based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try different vegetables or seasonings; this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful weeknight dinner that combines juicy chicken with a tangy balsamic glaze, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. This easy recipe not only delivers incredible flavor but also minimizes cleanup with its one-pan method. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is ready in just 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. With its vibrant ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you’ll impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 8 oz grape tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Toss grape tomatoes with mozzarella and basil in a separate bowl; season lightly.
- Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat; season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Sear chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour balsamic sauce over chicken and add tomato mixture on top.
- Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
