One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a flavorful and convenient dish that combines tender chicken breasts, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella—all cooked in a single skillet. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, impressing everyone at the table with its delectable taste. The unique blend of balsamic vinegar and honey adds a delightful tang that elevates the dish while keeping preparation and cleanup hassle-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less mess to clean up afterward.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or serving it with pasta or crusty bread.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this meal supports a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make One Pan Balsamic Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This is crucial for cooking the chicken evenly and transferring it directly from stovetop to oven without needing additional cookware.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls allows for efficient mixing of sauces and tossing of ingredients, making the process smoother.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for One Pan Balsamic Chicken:

• 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 8 oz grape tomatoes
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step ensures that your dish cooks evenly when placed in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Balsamic vinegar
2. Honey
3. Olive oil
4. Garlic cloves, minced
5. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Toss Tomatoes and Mozzarella

In another bowl, toss:
1. Grape tomatoes
2. Fresh mozzarella balls

Season with salt and pepper before setting aside.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In your large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Heat olive oil.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5–7 minutes per side.

Step 5: Add Balsamic Sauce

Pour the balsamic sauce over the chicken in the skillet:
1. Let it simmer briefly to infuse flavors.

Step 6: Layer Tomato Mixture

Remove from heat and layer:
1. The seasoned tomato and mozzarella mixture over the chicken.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven:
1. Bake uncovered for 18–23 minutes or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 8: Serve

Once done, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving garnished with fresh basil.

With these straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy a delightful One Pan Balsamic Chicken that’s sure to please any crowd!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only easy to make but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can elevate the dish with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and presentation.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the dish with a side of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious balsamic sauce. It adds a satisfying crunch that complements the tender chicken.

Over Pasta

• Serve the chicken over a bed of spaghetti or your favorite pasta. The combination of flavors makes for a hearty meal that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Alongside a Fresh Salad

• Pair this dish with a fresh salad, like arugula or mixed greens. The crispness of the greens balances the richness of the chicken, providing a refreshing contrast.

Garnished with Fresh Basil

• For an aromatic touch, garnish your plate with fresh basil leaves. This adds a pop of color and enhances the Italian flavors of the dish.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Add seasonal vegetables such as roasted zucchini or bell peppers on the side. They not only bring color to your plate but also boost nutritional value.

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How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To achieve the best results with your One Pan Balsamic Chicken, consider these simple tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken, tomatoes, and basil will significantly enhance flavor and texture.
• Marinate longer: If time allows, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar and honey for at least an hour before cooking to deepen the flavors.
• Monitor cooking temperature: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety without drying it out.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding herbs like thyme or oregano can introduce new flavor dimensions to your dish.
• Adjust sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to increase or decrease honey in the balsamic mixture for more sweetness or tanginess.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before serving helps retain its juices, making each bite tender and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Complementing your One Pan Balsamic Chicken with delicious sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs beautifully with balsamic chicken.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant green element while maintaining a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the chicken.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta offers a refreshing side that is also nutritious.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring out earthy flavors that complement the sweetness of the balsamic reduction.
5. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil create a light and healthy accompaniment.
6. Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil echoes the flavors in your main dish while adding freshness.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs serves as a neutral backdrop that allows the flavors of the chicken to shine through.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn provides a fun, summery element to your meal while balancing out richer flavors from the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Balsamic Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few important details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate in the balsamic mixture can lead to bland flavors. Always give it at least 15 minutes for maximum taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken breasts in the skillet will steam them instead of brown them. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect golden crust.
• Ignoring temperature: Not checking the internal temperature of the chicken can result in undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Neglecting the resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Let it rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping fresh basil or other garnishes leaves the dish looking plain. A sprinkle of herbs adds freshness and visual appeal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover One Pan Balsamic Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Place cooled portions of chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making One Pan Balsamic Chicken:

How do I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthier?

You can use skinless chicken breasts and reduce honey or substitute with a natural sweetener like agave syrup.

Can I use different vegetables in One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How long does One Pan Balsamic Chicken last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely, making it great for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Its rich flavors and simple ingredients make it an excellent choice for any occasion. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or serving options. We encourage you to try this dish—it’s sure to become a family favorite!