One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One pan balsamic chicken is the perfect solution for a quick, delicious weeknight dinner. This dish combines tender chicken with vibrant flavors from balsamic vinegar and fresh tomatoes, making it both satisfying and healthy. It’s suitable for family meals or entertaining guests, showcasing a lovely Italian flair that will impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This one-pan dish requires minimal prep time and can be ready in just 45 minutes.
- Flavorful Combination: The balance of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients creates a delightful taste explosion.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less mess to clean up afterward!
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this recipe aligns well with healthy eating plans.
Tools and Preparation
To make one pan balsamic chicken efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Meat mallet
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast Iron Skillet: Provides even heat distribution and is perfect for stovetop-to-oven cooking.
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily without any spills.
- Whisk: Helps to blend the sauce smoothly for a perfect flavor mix.
Ingredients
One-pan balsamic chicken is made with simple ingredients that are easy to find:
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 Vegetables
- 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 until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
Step 2: Mix Tomatoes and Mozzarella
In a separate bowl, toss together the grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season this mixture lightly with salt and pepper as well before setting it aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F while you prepare the chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil over medium-high heat in your large oven-safe skillet. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. When the pan is hot and the oil is shimmering:
1. Add the chicken in a single layer.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.
3. Pour in the balsamic sauce mixture—it should start to simmer quickly.
4. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Add Tomato Mixture
Remove the skillet from heat immediately after adding the sauce, then spread the tomato mozzarella mixture evenly over the chicken.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165F). Remove from oven and allow to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
With these easy steps, you’ll have a delicious one pan balsamic chicken that’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One pan balsamic chicken is not just easy to make, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and garnishes. Consider these serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the dish for an aromatic touch.
- Parsley Garnish: A handful of fresh parsley can add color and flavor.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Fluffy Rice: Serve the chicken over jasmine or brown rice to soak up the delicious balsamic sauce.
- Quinoa Bowl: For a healthier option, use quinoa as a base; its nutty flavor complements the dish well.
Accompanied by Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula and cherry tomatoes adds freshness.
- Caprese Salad: The classic combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil works perfectly with this chicken.
With Crusty Bread
- Baguette Slices: Serve slices of crusty baguette on the side for dipping into the sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Add garlic bread for a deliciously rich pairing that everyone will love.
How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken
To achieve the best results with your one pan balsamic chicken, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes enhance flavor significantly.
- Pound Chicken Evenly: This ensures even cooking and prevents dry spots in your chicken.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking for juicier results.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to modify salt and pepper according to your liking.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Pairing one pan balsamic chicken with complementary side dishes can round out your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide a comforting side.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrients.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon enhances freshness.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that absorbs flavors beautifully from the chicken’s sauce.
- Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with cucumbers and feta makes a refreshing side.
- Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that complements the balsamic notes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking one-pan balsamic chicken can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Always season your chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcrowding the pan: If you overcrowd, the chicken won’t sear properly. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that golden crust.
- Not pounded to even thickness: Uneven chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always pound your chicken breasts for even thickness.
- Ignoring the resting time: Resting allows juices to redistribute. Don’t skip this step; let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Rushing the cooking process: Patience matters! Make sure to let the sauce simmer and ensure the chicken cooks through completely.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover one pan balsamic chicken in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- You can freeze this dish for up to 2-3 months.
- Ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the chicken until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making one pan balsamic chicken:
Can I use other proteins for One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or pork. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What kind of vinegar works best?
Balsamic vinegar is recommended for its sweet and tangy flavor. However, you can experiment with red wine vinegar for a different taste.
How do I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor!
Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?
It is! This dish is packed with protein and fresh ingredients, making it a nutritious option for dinner.
Final Thoughts
One pan balsamic chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make recipe perfect for any weeknight dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins and veggies. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner that combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich balsamic glaze, vibrant grape tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. This easy-to-make dish not only pleases the palate but also minimizes cleanup with its one-pan preparation. Perfect for busy families or entertaining guests, this Italian-inspired recipe showcases delightful flavors with minimal effort. In just under an hour, you can serve up a satisfying meal that is both healthy and indulgent, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.
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
- Fresh basil, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for the sauce.
- Toss grape tomatoes and mozzarella with basil in another bowl; season lightly.
- Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown (1-2 minutes per side).
- Pour 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 before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce and vegetables
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
