Irresistible One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe in Minutes
One pan balsamic chicken is one of those delightful dishes that makes weeknight dinners feel a bit more special. If you’re anything like me, juggling a busy schedule while trying to whip up something delicious can be a challenge. That’s why this recipe has become one of my go-to favorites; it’s packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup—just one pan! Perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining, you’ll find this dish brings everyone to the table with its enticing aroma and vibrant colors.
The best part? This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only simple but also adaptable, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe will surely shine. Let’s dive into what makes it so special!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Easy preparation: With just one pan needed, you can save time on both cooking and cleanup.
– Flavor-packed: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering sauce.
– Versatile: Great for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
– Healthy option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies while keeping calories in check.
– Quick cooking time: Ready in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh ingredients is key to achieving the best flavors in your One Pan Balsamic Chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:
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
– 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
– Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
– 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
– 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
– 2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil
Variations
One of the great things about this One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is its flexibility! You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
– Swap the protein: Try using boneless turkey breasts or even tofu for a plant-based option.
– Change the cheese: Substitute mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
– Add seasonal veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini to boost nutrition and color.
– Experiment with herbs: Use thyme or oregano instead of basil to switch up the taste.
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 before setting it aside. This step is crucial because the sauce will infuse your chicken with rich flavors during cooking.
Step 2: Toss the Tomato-Mozzarella Mixture
In another bowl, combine the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season this mixture with salt and pepper as well before setting it aside. This colorful topping adds freshness that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F while preparing your chicken. A hot oven will help achieve that nice golden crust on your chicken while keeping it juicy inside.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, heat some avocado oil until shimmering. Season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet in a single layer. Sear each side for about 1–2 minutes until lightly golden brown; this step develops flavor through caramelization.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Once seared, pour the prepared balsamic sauce over the chicken in the skillet. It should start to simmer right away; use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds depth to your sauce.
Step 6: Bake
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the tomato-mozzarella mixture evenly over the top of your chicken. Bake uncovered for about 18–23 minutes until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Let it rest for about five minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps keep all those delicious juices locked in!
Enjoy serving this scrumptious One Pan Balsamic Chicken alongside some crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal!
Pro Tips for Making One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Making One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a breeze, but with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection. These handy suggestions will help you achieve the best flavors and textures while keeping things simple and enjoyable.
– Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried versions. Opt for high-quality balsamic vinegar for a richer taste.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Ensure the chicken pieces have space in the skillet so they can brown properly. If necessary, cook in batches to achieve that perfect golden color.
– Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain its juices, making each bite more tender and flavorful.
– Adjust seasoning: Tasting as you go is key! Don’t hesitate to adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before baking.
– Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure they’ll cook evenly with the chicken.
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
When it comes time to serve your One Pan Balsamic Chicken, presentation can make all the difference. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Garnishes
– Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
– Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavors while providing an appealing visual contrast.
– A drizzle of balsamic glaze: For an extra touch of elegance, consider drizzling some balsamic glaze over the top just before serving.
Side Dishes
– Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra balsamic sauce on your plate.
– Quinoa or couscous salad: A light grain salad pairs wonderfully with this dish and adds texture.
– Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized make a delightful complement.
– Steamed green beans or asparagus: Their freshness balances out the richness of the chicken nicely.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping can save you time on busy nights, and One Pan Balsamic Chicken is great for this purpose! Here’s how to store it effectively.
Storing Leftovers
– Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s well-sealed to maintain freshness.
Freezing
– To freeze, cut any leftover chicken into smaller portions and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers.
– Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with dates so you can keep track!
Reheating
– For best results, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This helps retain moisture.
– You can also use a microwave; just cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in short intervals until warmed thoroughly.
FAQs
When cooking One Pan Balsamic Chicken, you may have some common questions. Here are answers that could help!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe as they tend to be juicier than breasts. Just ensure they are cooked through with an internal temperature of 165F.
Can I substitute balsamic vinegar?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar or honey for sweetness.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re excited to try this One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe! It’s not only easy but bursting with flavor that will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- 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 before setting it aside.
- In another bowl, combine the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season this mixture with salt and pepper as well before setting it aside.
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F while preparing your chicken.
- In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, heat some avocado oil until shimmering. Season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet in a single layer. Sear each side for about 1–2 minutes until lightly golden brown.
- Once seared, pour the prepared balsamic sauce over the chicken in the skillet. It should start to simmer right away; use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the tomato-mozzarella mixture evenly over the top of your chicken. Bake uncovered for about 18–23 minutes until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Let it rest for about five minutes after removing it from the oven.
