One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One-pan balsamic chicken is a delightful blend of flavor and simplicity, making it the perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. This recipe stands out for its ease of preparation, using just one pan to create a deliciously savory meal. It’s versatile enough for family gatherings or romantic dinners, plus it impresses with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 15 minutes to prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you can savor your dinner while keeping cleanup simple and stress-free.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh herbs creates a rich flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and fresh vegetables, this dish supports a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
To make one-pan balsamic chicken effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you prepare this dish quickly and effectively.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large oven-safe skillet: This tool allows you to sear the chicken perfectly before transferring it to the oven, ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowls: Use these for combining ingredients easily, keeping your workspace organized.
- Whisk: A whisk helps blend the sauce ingredients smoothly for maximum flavor infusion.
- Wooden spoon: This tool is perfect for scraping up browned bits from the pan, adding depth to your sauce.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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
– 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. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture
In another bowl, toss together the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the 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. When the pan is hot and 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 come to a simmer quickly.
4. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Add Tomato Mozzarella Mixture
Immediately remove the pan from heat and add the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should register at 165F). Remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy this scrumptious one-pan balsamic chicken with your favorite sides!
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One pan balsamic chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Serve with Fresh Herbs
- Basil Leaves: Garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves to enhance the flavor and add a pop of color.
- Italian Parsley: Chopped parsley can brighten up the presentation and provide a fresh taste.
Pair with Grains
- Quinoa: A nutty flavor and fluffy texture make quinoa a healthy base that absorbs the balsamic sauce beautifully.
- Brown Rice: This whole grain option adds fiber and complements the chicken’s flavors.
Add a Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken.
- Caprese Salad: Layered mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil echo the flavors in the main dish for a delightful combination.
Include Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the balsamic sauce, garlic bread adds an extra comforting element to your meal.
- Ciabatta Rolls: These rolls are great for sopping up any remaining sauce on your plate.
How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken
To achieve an exceptional one pan balsamic chicken, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality balsamic vinegar will intensify the dish’s flavors.
- Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensuring your chicken breasts are of even thickness helps them cook uniformly for tender results.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking keeps it juicy by redistributing the juices throughout the meat.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before adding it to the chicken; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and variety.
- Utilize Leftovers Creatively: Leftover chicken can be used in salads, wraps, or pasta dishes for quick meals throughout the week.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Complement your one pan balsamic chicken with these delicious side dishes. Each option enhances the overall dining experience.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic bring comfort and richness alongside the tangy chicken.
- Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus tossed in olive oil makes for a light yet flavorful side that pairs well with balsamic chicken.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach seasoned with garlic provides a nutritious addition full of vitamins without overpowering flavors.
- Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta offers a lovely base that contrasts nicely with the savory notes of the chicken dish.
- Grilled Zucchini: Lightly charred zucchini enhances your plate’s freshness and brings seasonal produce into play.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors while providing a light, fluffy texture alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making one-pan balsamic chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time.
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Skipping the seasoning: Always season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking. This enhances the flavor of the meat significantly.
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Not preheating the skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice golden brown crust.
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Overcrowding the pan: Avoid placing too many chicken pieces in the skillet at once. This can lead to steaming instead of searing, which affects texture.
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Ignoring resting time: Letting the chicken rest after baking is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
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Using low-quality balsamic vinegar: Choose a good quality balsamic vinegar for this recipe. The flavor of your sauce depends heavily on it.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days for best taste.
Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Freeze in individual portions or as a whole.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: In a skillet, heat over low until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
One pan balsamic chicken is a simple weeknight meal made with chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful balsamic sauce with tomatoes and mozzarella.
Can I use other vegetables with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
How do I know when One Pan Balsamic Chicken is done?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?
Absolutely! It’s high in protein and contains fresh ingredients, making it a nutritious option for dinner.
Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken beforehand or prepare it fully and reheat when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
One-pan balsamic chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or herbs based on your preferences. Give this easy recipe a try for a delightful weeknight dinner that will satisfy everyone at your table!
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the ultimate solution for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. This dish combines the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh herbs with tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all cooked in just one pan. The simplicity of preparation ensures minimal cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle. Perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners, this colorful dish will impress your guests while keeping your kitchen stress-free.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 2 Tbsp avocado or olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt
- Fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Toss tomatoes and mozzarella with salt and pepper in another bowl.
- Heat 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 sauce over chicken and sprinkle the tomato-mozzarella mixture on top.
- Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
