One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One-pan balsamic chicken is a delightful dish perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender chicken with the sweet tang of balsamic vinegar, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings. With minimal cleanup and a burst of flavor, this one-pan wonder will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just one pan needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients creates a rich flavor that elevates simple chicken breasts.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in different vegetables or cheeses to cater to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra servings for leftovers that reheat well, making lunch planning simple.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparation efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Meat mallet (or rolling pin)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to transition from stovetop to oven seamlessly, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients separately before adding them to the pan, keeping flavors distinct until they meld together.
• Whisk: Essential for combining sauce ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for scraping up browned bits from the skillet, enhancing the flavor of your dish.

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
• 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 all the sauce ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mozzarella Mixture

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

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) while you prepare the chicken.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season the chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper. Once the pan is hot and oil is shimmering:
1. Add chicken in a single layer.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.
3. Pour in the balsamic sauce mixture; it should come to a simmer quickly.
4. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Add Toppings Before Baking

Immediately remove the skillet from heat and add the tomato mozzarella mixture evenly over the chicken.

Step 6: Bake Until Done

Bake uncovered in preheated oven for 18-23 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should register at 165°F). Remove from oven and 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 versatile and can be served in various ways. It pairs wonderfully with a range of sides and garnishes, enhancing its rich flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Greens

• Arugula Salad: Serve the chicken over a bed of fresh arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery contrast.
• Spinach and Kale Mix: A light mix of spinach and kale dressed in olive oil adds freshness and crunch.

With Grains

• Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa absorbs the balsamic sauce, making each bite delightful.
• Brown Rice: Serve over brown rice for a healthy grain option that complements the meal nicely.

With Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A slice of warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch alongside the juicy chicken.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Sprinkle more fresh basil on top for added flavor and color.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add a savory touch to the dish.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To achieve the best results when preparing one pan balsamic chicken, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is both flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Use Evenly Pounded Chicken: Ensuring that the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness helps them cook uniformly.
• Sear Before Baking: Searing the chicken until golden brown enhances flavor and texture, creating a delicious crust.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking ensures juiciness as it redistributes the juices throughout.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce mixture before adding it to the pan. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh tomatoes and basil for maximum flavor; they make a significant difference in this recipe.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with one pan balsamic chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the tangy sauce beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the chicken.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, zucchini noodles are a great low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors well.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a crisp texture against tender chicken.
5. Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option provides a neutral base that pairs well with bold flavors from the dish.
6. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs adds freshness alongside hearty chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish. However, there are some common mistakes home cooks can make that may affect the final result.

• Skipping the pounded chicken: Not pounding the chicken to even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to pound it out so it cooks through perfectly.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long will dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Rushing the marinating process: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the balsamic mixture enhances flavor. Try to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking for better taste.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately with salt and pepper can result in bland chicken. Season generously on both sides before cooking.
• Not scraping the pan: When adding the balsamic sauce, if you don’t scrape up bits from the pan, you miss out on great flavor. Use a wooden spoon to incorporate those bits into your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken:

Can I use different proteins for One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or even lamb if you’re looking for variety.

How do I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preference!

What should I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken earlier in the day and cook it when ready.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. This versatile dish allows for customization based on your taste preferences or seasonal ingredients. Give it a try and discover how delightful weeknight dinners can be!