One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One-pan balsamic chicken is a delightful and easy weeknight dinner that brings together bold flavors in a simple dish. This recipe showcases tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich balsamic sauce, complemented by fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. Perfect for busy families or casual gatherings, this meal is both satisfying and impressive, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- One-Pan Cooking: Enjoy easy cleanup with this one-pan wonder that minimizes dishes and maximizes flavor.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress everyone.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use what’s on hand! Substitute different veggies or proteins to fit your preferences.
- Healthy Dinner Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this dish fits well into various diets.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Having everything ready ensures you can focus on creating a delicious one-pan balsamic chicken.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Meat mallet (for pounding chicken)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large oven-safe skillet: This versatile pan allows you to sear the chicken and finish cooking it in the oven without transferring to another dish.
- Whisk: A must-have for blending the sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring an even flavor throughout the dish.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up those flavorful brown bits from the skillet, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 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 & 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 Marinade
- In a bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard.
- Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Tomatoes and Mozzarella
- In a separate bowl, toss together the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
- Heat avocado oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet.
- Season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Once the pan is hot and oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.
Step 5: Add Marinade and Toppings
- Pour the balsamic sauce mixture over the browned chicken; it should start to simmer immediately.
- Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
- Remove from heat and add the tomato mozzarella mixture evenly over the chicken.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 18-23 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should register at 165F). Allow resting for 5 minutes before serving.
This one-pan balsamic chicken recipe not only simplifies your cooking but also delivers fantastic flavors that everyone will love!
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One pan balsamic chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation make it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Caprese Salad: Layers of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes complement the balsamic flavors beautifully.
Serve Over Pasta
- Linguine Aglio e Olio: Simple garlic and olive oil pasta allows the chicken’s flavor to shine through.
- Pesto Pasta: The herbaceous notes of pesto work wonderfully with the balsamic chicken.
Accompany with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter makes for a perfect vehicle to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Focaccia: Soft, herbed focaccia adds an Italian touch and pairs well with the meal.
Add Roasted Vegetables
- Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted in olive oil enhance nutritional value and taste.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness balances the tangy balsamic flavor of the chicken.
How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken
To achieve the best one pan balsamic chicken, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes will elevate the dish’s flavor immensely.
- Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensuring even thickness allows for uniform cooking, resulting in juicy chicken throughout.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your chicken; overcooking can lead to dryness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before serving helps retain juices for better flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
When planning your meal, consider pairing one pan balsamic chicken with these delicious side dishes. They are easy to prepare and offer a wonderful balance to your main dish.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and richness that complements the chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with diced vegetables offers a healthy grain option loaded with protein.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant color and crunch that brightens your plate.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized enhance the savory elements of the dish.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well while providing a nice texture contrast.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn is perfect for a summer vibe alongside this hearty meal.
- Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous combined with herbs and lemon makes for a refreshing side that pairs excellently.
- Zucchini Noodles: A great low-carb option that soaks up any leftover sauce from the chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One Pan Balsamic Chicken, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much chicken at once can cause steaming rather than searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Ignoring internal temperature: Not checking for doneness may result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Forgetting to rest the chicken: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Stale ingredients can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh herbs, mozzarella, and tomatoes for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the chicken with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making One Pan Balsamic Chicken:
Can I use different vegetables with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
What sides pair well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Serve this dish with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
How do I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?
You can prepare the marinade and chop your ingredients in advance. Store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Can I substitute balsamic vinegar?
Absolutely! You can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as an alternative if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
One-pan balsamic chicken is not only simple but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe is versatile—you can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful dish!
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich balsamic glaze, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also ensures minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy families or casual gatherings. The harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors will leave everyone at the table impressed.
Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- 2 Tbsp oil, such as avocado or olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, combine halved tomatoes and mozzarella; season with salt and pepper.
- Heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; sear until golden brown (1-2 minutes per side).
- Pour marinade over chicken; add tomato-mozzarella mixture. 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: 23 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with toppings (approx. 226g)
- Calories: 292
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 385mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 92mg
