One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One pan balsamic chicken is a delightful and easy meal that brings bold flavors to your dinner table. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, combining juicy chicken with a tangy balsamic glaze, fresh vegetables, and melty mozzarella. It’s not only simple to prepare but also offers a wholesome taste that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, this recipe is perfect for any night of the week.
• Flavorful: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic creates a delicious sauce that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.
• Versatile: This dish pairs well with various sides like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad, making it suitable for any occasion.
• One Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan reduces cleanup time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, this recipe fits well into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing one pan balsamic chicken even simpler. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This is crucial for searing the chicken and finishing the dish in the oven without transferring to another pan.
• Whisk: A whisk helps blend the sauce ingredients smoothly for an even flavor throughout your dish.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls keeps your ingredients organized while you prepare them.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your balsamic sauce.

Ingredients

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 until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato and Mozzarella Mixture

In another bowl, combine the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste before setting aside.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F so it’s ready when you’re done cooking on the stovetop.

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 hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden brown.

Step 5: Add Balsamic Sauce

Pour in the balsamic sauce mixture over the chicken once it’s golden brown. It should come to a simmer quickly; use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Assemble Everything

Remove the pan from heat immediately after adding sauce. Top each piece of chicken with the tomato mozzarella mixture evenly distributed across.

Step 7: Bake

Place the skillet uncovered in your preheated oven for 18–23 minutes or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165F). Remove from oven and allow resting for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious one pan balsamic chicken!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One pan balsamic chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.

Serve Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy rice or quinoa absorbs the tasty balsamic sauce, making each bite delightful.

Add Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the balsamic juices and adds a nice crunch to the meal.

Garnish with Extra Basil

• Fresh basil on top enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color to your plate.

Accompany with Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans add nutrition and balance to this hearty dish.

Create a Wrap

• Use leftovers in a wrap with fresh veggies for a quick lunch option that’s packed with flavor.

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How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To achieve the best results with your one pan balsamic chicken, follow these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality balsamic vinegar – The flavor of your dish greatly depends on the quality of vinegar. A better vinegar yields richer taste.

• Pound chicken evenly – Ensuring your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness helps them cook uniformly, preventing dryness.

• Let it rest before slicing – Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking keeps it juicy and flavorful when served.

• Experiment with herbs – Feel free to adjust or add herbs according to your taste. Fresh thyme or oregano can enhance the dish’s profile.

• Monitor cooking time – Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption without overcooking.

• Use a trusted oven-safe skillet – A good skillet ensures even heat distribution, which is essential for perfectly cooked chicken.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your one pan balsamic chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic offer comfort and complement the savory notes of the chicken.

2. Roasted Asparagus – Asparagus tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender provides a crunchy, vibrant side that pairs well.

3. Cauliflower Rice – A lighter alternative, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors beautifully and keeps the meal healthy.

4. Mediterranean Couscous Salad – This salad features couscous mixed with olives, cucumbers, and feta cheese, adding a refreshing twist.

5. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly grilled zucchini slices bring out their natural sweetness while adding color to your plate.

6. Caprese Salad – Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a delightful contrast in flavors.

7. Spinach and Strawberry Salad – This sweet-and-savory salad combines fresh spinach, strawberries, walnuts, and feta for a delicious pairing.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes – The sweetness from baked sweet potatoes balances well with the tangy flavors of balsamic chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your cooking experience. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping the pounded chicken: Not pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to pound them for consistent results.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect golden crust.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Don’t skip the salt and pepper; they are essential for enhancing taste.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Always allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Using low-quality balsamic vinegar: Low-quality vinegar can ruin the flavor profile. Choose a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best taste.
• Neglecting ingredient prep: Forgetting to prepare ingredients ahead of time can make the cooking process chaotic. Have everything ready to ensure a smooth experience.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store One Pan Balsamic Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, checking frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken that might help you:

What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish made by baking chicken with balsamic vinegar, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil all in one pan.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I know if my chicken is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

What should I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

It pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! One Pan Balsamic Chicken is great for meal prep and stores well in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also delivers incredible flavor in every bite. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special, this recipe has you covered. Try it today!