One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One-pan balsamic chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner that bursts with flavor and simplicity. This dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy balsamic sauce, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. It’s perfect for busy evenings or special occasions when you want to impress without a lot of fuss. With just one pan required, cleanup is a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe can be made in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh herbs creates a deliciously rich sauce.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any taste.
- Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
Tools and Preparation
To make one-pan balsamic chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to cook the chicken on the stovetop before transferring it directly to the oven, keeping all the flavors melded together.
- Mixing bowls: These are perfect for combining your sauce ingredients and tossing together your tomato and mozzarella mixture.
- Whisk: A whisk helps ensure that the sauce ingredients blend smoothly without clumps.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up those tasty brown bits from the bottom of your skillet.
Ingredients
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
- 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
For Toppings
- 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
Seasoning
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
- 2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil
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 salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Toppings
In another bowl, toss together the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste as well. Set aside.
Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season the chicken all over with salt and pepper. Once hot and shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.
Step 5: Add Sauce
Pour in the balsamic sauce mixture over the chicken; it should come to a simmer quickly. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the pan’s bottom.
Step 6: Combine & Bake
Remove from heat and add the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken evenly. Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes or until cooked through; internal temperature should reach 165F. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious one-pan balsamic chicken!
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One pan balsamic chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be served in various ways to suit your taste and occasion.
With Fresh Salad
- A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Serving the chicken over fluffy rice or quinoa provides a hearty base that soaks up the tangy balsamic sauce.
In a Wrap
- Shred the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with fresh veggies for a quick and tasty lunch option.
With Garlic Bread
- Crispy garlic bread makes for a great side that complements the meal perfectly, allowing you to enjoy every drop of the sauce.
On Pasta
- Tossing the chicken and sauce over pasta creates an indulgent dish that’s filling and satisfying.
As Leftovers
- The flavors deepen when reheated, making leftovers an exciting option for lunch or dinner the next day.
How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken
For an even more delicious one pan balsamic chicken, follow these simple tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes enhance flavor significantly.
- Pound chicken evenly: This ensures even cooking, preventing dry or undercooked spots.
- Sear chicken properly: A good sear adds depth of flavor; don’t rush this step!
- Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before serving locks in juices for tender meat.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and tweak salt, pepper, or honey for your preferred flavor balance.
- Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Complement your one pan balsamic chicken with these delightful side dishes that enhance the meal’s overall experience.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting texture.
- Steamed Broccoli – A simple and healthy choice that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
- Roasted Asparagus – Drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt, asparagus brings a crunchy contrast.
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that’s light yet flavorful, perfect for soaking up sauce.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complement the dish while adding freshness.
- Couscous Salad – Fluffy couscous mixed with veggies offers a refreshing twist to balance out the richness of the chicken.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that pairs well with balsamic flavors.
- Quinoa Pilaf – Nutty quinoa tossed with herbs creates a nutritious side packed with protein.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a simple dish, but there are some common mistakes that can hinder your cooking experience. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the pounded chicken: Not pounding the chicken to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Always flatten the chicken breasts for consistent results.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Ignoring seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken or vegetables can leave the dish bland. Always season generously with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
- Not using high-heat oil: Using low-smoke point oils for high-heat cooking can result in burnt flavors. Opt for oils like avocado or grapeseed oil.
- Neglecting to scrape the pan: Failing to scrape up brown bits from the skillet can miss out on rich flavors. Use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan after searing the chicken.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power, checking every minute until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats for One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork or turkey cutlets. Adjust cooking times as needed.
What sides go well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Pair this dish with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that complements its flavors.
Can I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I ensure my balsamic sauce thickens properly?
To thicken your balsamic sauce, let it simmer gently after adding it to the pan. This helps concentrate its flavors and achieve a richer consistency.
What makes this recipe so easy?
The one-pan method means less cleanup and fewer dishes, making it perfect for busy weeknights while still delivering great taste.
Final Thoughts
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs to match your personal taste. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is your go-to weeknight dinner that combines flavor and convenience in a single skillet. This simple yet impressive dish features tender chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy balsamic sauce, complemented by fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. With minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy evenings or special occasions. In just 45 minutes, you can serve a mouthwatering meal that satisfies everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 8 oz grape tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
- Olive or avocado oil
- Garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard; season with salt and pepper.
- Toss halved grape tomatoes and mozzarella balls in another bowl with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; sear for 1-2 minutes per side until golden.
- Pour the balsamic sauce over the chicken. 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
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
