One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One-pan balsamic chicken is a delightful dish that brings together flavors in an easy and quick way. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this meal combines tender chicken with a tangy balsamic glaze and fresh ingredients. The best part? It all cooks in one pan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients creates a dish bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Meal: This recipe works well for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week ahead.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious choice that fits various diets.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time scrubbing dishes after your meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make one-pan balsamic chicken, having the right tools will ensure a smooth cooking experience. Here are the essentials you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large oven-safe skillet: This is crucial for cooking the chicken evenly and transferring it directly to the oven without needing multiple dishes.
- Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate the sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls keeps your ingredients organized and makes preparation quicker.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up those tasty brown 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 Tomato Mixture
In a separate 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 to the skillet 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 up 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 or until chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should register at 165°F). Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This one-pan balsamic chicken will surely become a favorite in your home! Enjoy it alongside rice or crusty bread for an unforgettable meal that’s easy to prepare any night of the week.
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One pan balsamic chicken is delicious on its own, but it can be enhanced with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and flavor.
- Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the chicken perfectly.
Over a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the chicken atop a bed of mixed greens drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Spinach: Sautéed spinach can be a nutritious base that adds depth to your plate.
Accompanied by Grains
- Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa serves as a great base that absorbs the balsamic sauce, adding texture and nutrition.
- Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf can be an excellent side, soaking up the flavors from the chicken.
With Bread
- Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce on your plate.
- Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread pairs beautifully, adding an extra layer of flavor.
How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken
To achieve the best results with one pan balsamic chicken, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and high-quality balsamic vinegar enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
- Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensuring your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness promotes even cooking.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken while baking; overcooking can lead to dryness.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps retain its juices, making each bite tender.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Garnish Wisely: Consider drizzling extra balsamic glaze or olive oil over the finished dish for extra richness.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Pairing one pan balsamic chicken with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrients, balancing out the meal.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing offers crunch and zest alongside the chicken.
- Lemon Orzo Pasta: Light lemon orzo pasta brings brightness and pairs beautifully with balsamic flavors.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides a fresh green element that contrasts nicely.
- Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs and lemon creates a delightful side bursting with flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a simple dish, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Not pounded chicken: Using unevenly thick chicken breasts can cause uneven cooking. Make sure to pound your chicken to an even thickness for consistent results.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet can create steam instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect golden brown crust.
- Ignoring the resting time: Cutting into the chicken too soon after baking can lead to dry meat. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.
- Using low-quality balsamic vinegar: A good quality balsamic vinegar enhances flavor immensely. Choose one that is rich and flavorful for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding One Pan Balsamic Chicken.
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, One Pan Balsamic Chicken is perfect for meal prep since it stores well and reheats easily.
Final Thoughts
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings according to your taste. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a satisfying dinner that’s both quick and easy!
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the ultimate weeknight meal that marries convenience with flavor. This dish features juicy, tender chicken breasts glazed with a delectable balsamic sauce, complemented by fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. Perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings, it requires minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pan cooking method. In just under an hour, you can serve a nutritious and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh basil, salt, and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for the sauce.
- Toss tomatoes and mozzarella in another bowl; season with salt and pepper.
- 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 sauce over the chicken and simmer briefly.
- Add the tomato and mozzarella mixture on top of the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until chicken is cooked through (165°F). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
