One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One pan balsamic chicken is a delightful weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken with a tangy balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes. This dish is quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy evenings or special occasions. With its one-pan cooking method, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the stress of extensive kitchen work.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and Italian seasoning creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less mess and more time to relax after dinner.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting different proteins.
• Healthy Meal Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make one pan balsamic chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools that will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet (oven-safe)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet (oven-safe): A sturdy skillet allows you to brown the chicken before transferring it directly to the oven for baking.
• Whisk: Ideal for combining the sauce ingredients smoothly without lumps.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for scraping up those delicious browned bits from the pan, enhancing the overall flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious one pan balsamic chicken:

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 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 Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients—balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Mozzarella

In another bowl, toss together the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) so it’s ready for baking once you’ve cooked the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat your oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. When the skillet is hot and oil shimmers, carefully add chicken in a single layer. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden brown.

Step 5: Add Balsamic Sauce

Pour the prepared balsamic sauce mixture over the chicken once both sides are golden brown. It should quickly come to a simmer; use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake

Remove the skillet from heat immediately after adding sauce. Spread the tomato mozzarella mixture evenly over the top of the chicken. Place uncovered in your preheated oven and bake for 18-23 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (75C). Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful one pan balsamic chicken!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One pan balsamic chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can pair it with various sides to elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this flavorful dish.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the chicken well.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing side that mirrors the flavors in the dish.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed Rice: Serve the chicken over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the balsamic sauce.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutritious, quinoa adds a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.

With Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned with olive oil and garlic, roasted asparagus makes a tasty side that balances the meal.
• Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach with garlic offers a vibrant green addition to your plate.

On a Bed of Pasta

• Linguine: Toss linguine with olive oil and garlic before placing the chicken on top for a hearty meal.
• Pesto Pasta: A creamy pesto pasta can add richness that complements the tangy chicken perfectly.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To ensure your one pan balsamic chicken comes out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality balsamic vinegar enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Pound Chicken Evenly: Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly throughout.
• Don’t Skip Preheating: Make sure your oven is preheated before baking; this helps achieve the right texture and doneness.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices for more tenderness.
• Experiment with Variations: Try adding different vegetables or spices to customize your dish based on personal tastes.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing one pan balsamic chicken with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic create a comforting side dish.
2. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini seasoned with salt and pepper adds freshness to balance the rich chicken.
3. Ratatouille: A colorful vegetable medley brings vibrant flavors and textures that complement the main dish.
4. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous tossed with veggies and herbs makes for a light yet satisfying accompaniment.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option, cauliflower rice can soak up the sauce while providing a healthy alternative.
6. Sweet Potato Wedges: Oven-baked sweet potato wedges offer a sweet contrast to the tangy flavors of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making one pan balsamic chicken, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sauce preparation: Not mixing the balsamic sauce well can lead to uneven flavor. Always whisk it thoroughly before adding it to the chicken.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too much chicken in the pan can prevent even cooking. Make sure to leave space between pieces for optimal results.
• Neglecting to pound the chicken: Chicken breasts that are not of even thickness may cook unevenly. Always pound them for uniform cooking.
• Not checking internal temperature: Cooking without checking can lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken too soon can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2-3 months for best flavor.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat at medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covered, until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

One pan balsamic chicken is a delicious and easy weeknight meal featuring chicken cooked with balsamic vinegar, honey, tomatoes, and mozzarella.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also vary the cheese type based on your preference.

Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein and healthy fats while being relatively low in carbs, making it a nutritious choice.

What sides pair well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Serve it with a fresh salad, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Final Thoughts

One pan balsamic chicken is not only simple but also incredibly flavorful. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers plenty of customization options based on your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and discover how easy it is to enjoy a fantastic homemade meal!