One Pan Balsamic Chicken

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, you’re in the right place! One Pan Balsamic Chicken has quickly become a family favorite at my house. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, and trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have them asking for seconds! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or even casual family gatherings; it’s simple yet impressive enough to make any meal feel special.

What I love about this dish is how everything comes together in just one pan. You’ll enjoy succulent chicken breasts coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic sauce, paired with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. It’s a delightful combination that makes dinner not only easy but also incredibly satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Cleanup is a breeze with everything cooked in just one pan!
• Quick Prep Time: With only 15 minutes of prep, you can get dinner on the table fast.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh basil creates an irresistible taste.
• Family-Friendly Dish: Even picky eaters will love this flavorful meal, making it great for everyone.
• Versatile Options: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making One Pan Balsamic Chicken requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry! Here’s what you need to create this delicious dish:

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or tofu for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
• Change the cheese: Try feta or goat cheese if you’re looking for a new flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your dish!

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce will elevate your chicken with its sweet and tangy goodness!

Step 2: Mix the Toppings

In another bowl, combine the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper as well. These toppings will add freshness and creaminess to your dish.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This step is crucial because it ensures that when you put your chicken in the oven later on, it cooks evenly while developing those beautiful flavors.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season your chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper before adding them to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re lightly golden brown—this step adds flavor through browning!

Step 5: Add Sauce & Toppings

Once browned, pour the balsamic sauce over the chicken so it can begin to simmer—don’t forget to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan! Now it’s time to remove from heat and layer those delicious tomato mozzarella toppings over the chicken.

Step 6: Bake & Serve

Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until your chicken is fully cooked through (the internal temperature should read 165F). Let it rest for about five minutes before serving so all those flavors settle in nicely. Enjoy every bite of this delightful meal!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Cooking can be a breeze with a few handy tips to ensure your one pan balsamic chicken turns out perfectly every time!

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: By pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, you’ll ensure they cook uniformly. This prevents overcooking the thinner parts while waiting for the thicker sections to finish cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your dish. Fresh ingredients bring a burst of taste that dried or preserved versions simply can’t match.
• Let it Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful when you serve.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini along with the tomatoes. They roast beautifully and add more nutrition and variety to your meal.
• Make it Ahead: For busy weeknights, consider marinating the chicken in the balsamic mixture earlier in the day or even overnight. This allows the flavors to soak in deeply, making your dinner even more delicious!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Serving your one pan balsamic chicken can be just as delightful as cooking it! Presenting this dish beautifully will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top enhances both presentation and flavor, giving an extra touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy cauliflower mashed with garlic makes a low-carb alternative to potatoes. It’s smooth and pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon provides a nutritious side that complements the dish’s Mediterranean flair.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor that balances well with the sweetness of the balsamic chicken.
• Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: Quick sautéed spinach offers vibrant color and nutrients, making it an easy yet delicious addition to your plate.

Enjoying your one pan balsamic chicken with these garnishes and sides will make for a delightful dining experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for quick weeknight dinners or lunches. Here’s how to keep your delicious dish fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, separate the chicken from the tomato and mozzarella mixture before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use other types of chicken for One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great, you can also use thighs or even chicken tenders. Just adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure they’re fully cooked.

What can I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with crusty bread to mop up any leftover balsamic sauce!

How can I customize my One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute fresh mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives if you prefer.

Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken suitable for special diets?

Yes! This recipe is versatile and aligns well with various dietary preferences. It’s gluten-free, low-carb, and can be made dairy-free by omitting cheese or using plant-based alternatives.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Pan Balsamic Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavors that come together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of one-pan cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!