One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One-pan balsamic chicken is a delicious and simple weeknight dinner that brings together the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of juicy chicken, roasted tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella makes it a standout meal that everyone will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Sauce
• Step 2: Prepare Tomato Mozzarella Mixture
• Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
• Step 4: Sear the Chicken
• Step 5: Add Balsamic Sauce
• Step 6: Combine Ingredients
• Step 7: Bake
• How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• On a Bed of Greens
• With Crusty Bread
• Over Pasta
• Stuffed in a Pita
• As Meal Prep
• How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long does it take to make One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
• Can I use different vegetables with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
• Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?
• What can I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• One Pan Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time and effort.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of balsamic vinegar and honey creates a tangy yet sweet glaze that enhances the chicken and vegetables.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe suits any occasion.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from olive oil, it’s a wholesome choice.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking one-pan balsamic chicken even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting your culinary adventure.

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 sear the chicken and then transfer it directly to the oven without changing pans.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients like sauces and veggies without mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the balsamic sauce evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up brown bits from the pan, enhancing flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful one-pan balsamic chicken recipe:

• 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 Balsamic Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set this mixture aside.

Step 2: Prepare Tomato Mozzarella Mixture

In another bowl, combine grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently and set aside.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F while you prepare the chicken.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat avocado oil over medium-high heat in your large oven-safe skillet. Season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering hot, add the chicken to the pan in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.

Step 5: Add Balsamic Sauce

Pour the prepared balsamic sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet. 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: Combine Ingredients

Remove the skillet from heat and layer the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Place your skillet in the preheated oven uncovered. Bake for 18-23 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F. Remove from oven and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious one-pan balsamic chicken with your favorite sides!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One pan balsamic chicken is not just flavorful; it’s versatile too! You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
• Add additional toppings like sliced cucumbers or avocados for extra texture.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the dish with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious balsamic sauce.
• A warm baguette complements the flavors wonderfully.

Over Pasta

• Place the chicken and sauce over cooked pasta for a hearty meal.
• Use spaghetti or penne, and garnish with extra basil for added flavor.

Stuffed in a Pita

• Try stuffing the chicken and veggies into pita pockets for a fun twist.
• Top with tzatziki sauce or hummus for added creaminess.

As Meal Prep

• Portion leftovers into meal prep containers for easy lunches during the week.
• Pair with quinoa or brown rice for a balanced meal option.

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How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Perfecting one pan balsamic chicken takes some attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, tomatoes, and basil make a significant difference in flavor.
• Pound the chicken evenly: Ensuring that all chicken pieces are of uniform thickness helps them cook evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect golden-brown sear on each piece of chicken.
• Monitor internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest after baking; this helps retain juices and flavor.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to use different herbs like thyme or oregano if you want to mix up the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

When serving one pan balsamic chicken, it’s great to have complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options that pair beautifully with this dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic enhance the richness of the chicken’s sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A light alternative that absorbs flavors well while keeping calories low; sauté with garlic for more taste.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber offers a crunchy balance against the tender chicken.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon balances out the richness of the dish perfectly.
6. Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous tossed with parsley, mint, and lemon adds freshness and complements the balsamic flavor beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing one pan balsamic chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate in the balsamic mixture can lead to less flavor. Always give it at least 15 minutes to soak up the goodness.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect sear.
• Using low-quality balsamic vinegar: Cheap vinegar can lead to an unbalanced taste. Invest in good quality balsamic for best results.
• Neglecting internal temperature: Failing to check the chicken’s internal temperature may result in undercooked or overcooked meat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

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 to 350°F and heat until warm, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid; heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet, cover, and heat over medium until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to one pan balsamic chicken:

How long does it take to make One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

It takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish.

Can I use different vegetables with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and offers good fats from olive oil, making it a nutritious meal option.

What can I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone.

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 seasoning based on your preferences. This recipe makes weeknight dinners easy and enjoyable—give it a try today!