One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One-pan balsamic chicken is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and simple ingredients, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe shines with its ease of preparation and the vibrant taste of balsamic vinegar paired with tender chicken. Whether it’s a family meal or a gathering with friends, this one-pan wonder delivers deliciousness without the hassle.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sauce
• For the Chicken and Toppings
• Additional Ingredients
• How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Sauce
• Step 2: Mix Tomato Mozzarella Topping
• Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
• Step 4: Sear the Chicken
• Step 5: Add Sauce and Toppings
• Step 6: Bake to Perfection
• How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• With Fresh Salad
• Over Rice or Quinoa
• With Crusty Bread
• With Roasted Vegetables
• Drizzled with Extra Balsamic Glaze
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• 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
• What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
• Can I use other vegetables in One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
• How do I know when One Pan Balsamic Chicken is done?
• Can I prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a scrumptious meal on the table in no time.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar, tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a mouthwatering medley that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served over pasta for an elegant touch; it suits any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make this recipe seamless. Having everything ready will help you whip up this dish in no time.

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 perfectly before transferring it to the oven for baking.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the balsamic sauce smoothly, ensuring all flavors blend well together.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up those delicious brown bits from the skillet, maximizing flavor.

Ingredients

One-pan balsamic chicken is such a flavorful weeknight dinner. Made with simple ingredients and easy steps!

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

Additional Ingredients

• 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 all 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 Tomato Mozzarella Topping

In another bowl, toss together the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) so it’s ready when the chicken is cooked.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

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

Step 5: Add Sauce and Toppings

Pour the prepared balsamic sauce mixture over the chicken; it should simmer quickly. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Remove from heat and layer the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for about 18-23 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (75 degrees C). After removing from oven, 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 perfect for a delightful weeknight dinner. This dish can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serving the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa allows you to soak up the delicious balsamic sauce.

With Crusty Bread

• Pairing one pan balsamic chicken with crusty bread makes for a hearty meal, perfect for sopping up the flavors from the skillet.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Add some roasted seasonal vegetables on the side for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.

Drizzled with Extra Balsamic Glaze

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze on top enhances the dish’s flavor and presentation, making it even more appealing.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates this dish.

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How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

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

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the dish’s flavors significantly.
• Pound chicken evenly: Evenly pounded chicken cooks uniformly, ensuring it’s juicy and tender.
• Preheat your skillet: A hot skillet helps achieve that golden-brown sear on the chicken.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing helps retain moisture for a better texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; you can always add more salt or pepper according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One pan balsamic chicken pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting pairing.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the chicken.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully.
4. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives and feta cheese provides a delightful burst of flavor.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a healthy twist while still being light and satisfying.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a summer vibe and sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring depth and texture, enhancing your meal’s overall experience.
8. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that echoes some ingredients in the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Not pounding the chicken: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly. Avoid this mistake by using a meat mallet before cooking.
• Skipping seasoning: Seasoning is key for flavor. Don’t forget to season both the chicken and vegetables with salt and pepper for the best taste.
• Ignoring the resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
• Overcrowding the pan: If your skillet is too crowded, the chicken will steam rather than brown. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect sear.
• Using low-quality balsamic vinegar: The quality of balsamic vinegar impacts flavor. Choose a good quality vinegar for a richer taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals on medium power until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about one pan balsamic chicken:

What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

One pan balsamic chicken is a delicious dish that combines chicken breasts with balsamic vinegar, honey, tomatoes, and mozzarella, all cooked together in one skillet.

Can I use other vegetables in One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.

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. A meat thermometer is helpful for this check.

Can I prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just store everything separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

One pan balsamic chicken is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the sweetness of the sauce to suit your taste. This easy recipe makes weeknight dinners delightful and satisfying. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!