One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that makes weeknight dinners a breeze. This recipe combines tender chicken with a tangy balsamic sauce, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all cooked in one pan. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking for an easy yet impressive meal, this dish stands out with its rich flavors and simple preparation. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, One Pan Balsamic Chicken never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a snap—no need for multiple pots and pans.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic creates a deliciously balanced sauce that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors and appealing presentation make it a hit with both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your One Pan Balsamic Chicken turns out perfectly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to sear the chicken properly and then transfer it directly to the oven for cooking.
• Whisk: Ideal for combining the sauce ingredients smoothly without lumps.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing the sauce and tossing together the tomato and mozzarella mixture separately.
• Wooden spoon: Great for scraping up any brown bits from the skillet, adding extra flavor to your dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture

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

Step 3: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper. Once the pan is hot and the oil is shimmering:
1. Add chicken to the skillet in a single layer.
2. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Bake

Add the balsamic sauce mixture over the chicken; it should simmer quickly:
1. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Remove from heat.
3. Arrange the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken.

Step 6: Finish Cooking in Oven

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 18–23 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through:
1. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (75 degrees C).
2. Remove from oven and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious One Pan Balsamic Chicken!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One pan balsamic chicken is a versatile dish that can easily become the star of your dinner table. Here are some delightful ways to serve it for a complete meal.

With Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together various greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the rich flavors of the chicken.

Over Grains

• Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy quinoa for added protein and texture.
• Rice: A side of jasmine or brown rice absorbs the delicious balsamic sauce perfectly.

Paired with Vegetables

• Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds color and nutrients to your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is a classic choice that balances the meal.

On a Bed of Pasta

• Pasta Primavera: Tossed with seasonal vegetables, pasta makes a hearty base for the chicken.
• Garlic Noodles: Flavorful garlic noodles can soak up the rich sauce for extra goodness.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To ensure your one pan balsamic chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold seasoning: Season both sides of the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance flavor.
• Even thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking and tenderness.
• Hot skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps achieve a nice sear and locks in juices.
• Balsamic reduction: Let the sauce simmer briefly to concentrate flavors before adding it to the chicken.
• Resting time: Allow the chicken to rest after baking; this keeps it juicy and flavorful.
• Fresh herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving to add vibrant flavor and color.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your one pan balsamic chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach adds a healthy green component that’s full of nutrients.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini brings out its natural sweetness and pairs well with balsamic.
4. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with veggies provides a light, fluffy texture that contrasts nicely.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness complements the tangy balsamic sauce beautifully.
6. Caprese Skewers: These skewers made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil echo flavors from the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is simple, but a few common mistakes can hinder your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken well can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking for a more flavorful dish.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet can cause steaming instead of searing. Make sure to cook in a single layer for that perfect golden-brown crust.
• Not pounded chicken: Using unevenly thick chicken breasts can result in uneven cooking. Always pound your chicken to an even thickness for consistent doneness.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes to lock in moisture.
• Rushing the balsamic sauce: Not allowing the sauce to simmer can lead to unbalanced flavors. Make sure the sauce comes to a simmer and scrape up any brown bits for depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best taste and quality.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently until warmed.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent dryness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does One Pan Balsamic Chicken take to cook?

One Pan Balsamic Chicken takes about 30 minutes to cook, with an additional 15 minutes of prep time.

Can I use different vegetables in One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Yes! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Adjust cooking time as needed for different vegetables.

What sides go well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Pair this dish with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and marinate the chicken beforehand for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only easy but also versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this dish. Try it tonight and discover your own favorite variations!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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One Pan Balsamic Chicken

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that transforms your weeknight dinners into a delightful experience. Combining succulent chicken breasts with a tangy balsamic sauce, fresh grape tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, this dish not only delivers rich flavors but also minimizes cleanup by cooking everything in one pan. Perfect for busy families or anyone seeking an impressive meal without the fuss, One Pan Balsamic Chicken is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it over rice or with a side salad for a complete meal that impresses every time.

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Ingredients

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• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 2 Tbsp oil (avocado or olive)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
• 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
• 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Kosher salt and black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, toss grape tomatoes and mozzarella balls with salt and pepper.
4. Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; sear for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden.
5. Pour balsamic mixture over the chicken; scatter tomato and mozzarella mix on top.
6. Bake uncovered for 18–23 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce and toppings (approx. 250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 105mg