One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One-pan balsamic chicken is the perfect dish for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a meal that combines ease with amazing flavor, this recipe is just what you need! It’s become a family favorite in my home because it not only tastes incredible but also requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress.

The beauty of one-pan balsamic chicken is its versatility. It can be served for casual dinners, festive gatherings, or meal prep for busy days ahead. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delightful meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip this up in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Delicious Flavor: The zesty balsamic sauce paired with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella creates an irresistible combination.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less time scrubbing dishes afterward!
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making weeknight meals a breeze.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This one-pan balsamic chicken uses fresh items that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Balsamic 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 & Toppings

• 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
• 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
• Kosher salt and fresh black pepper

For Cooking

• 2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breast or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers alongside the tomatoes for extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Use goat cheese or feta instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh thyme or oregano can add a delightful twist to the dish.

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together all your sauce ingredients: balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mixing these flavors together creates that rich glaze that will coat your chicken beautifully!

Step 2: Toss Together the Toppings

In another bowl, combine halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper as well. This mixture adds freshness and color to your dish while complementing the savory chicken perfectly.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to preheat at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). A preheated oven ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and quickly – plus it helps develop those lovely flavors when baking!

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season both sides of your pounded chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are lightly golden brown—this step adds great texture! Pour your balsamic sauce into the pan; it will start bubbling right away!

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

Remove your pan from heat and sprinkle the tomato and mozzarella mixture over the top of the chicken. This layer will melt slightly during baking while infusing its flavors into every bite.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop your skillet in the oven uncovered for about 18-23 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving so all those delicious juices can settle.

There you have it! A delightful one-pan balsamic chicken dinner that’s not only easy but incredibly satisfying too! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Making one pan balsamic chicken is easy, but a few simple tips can elevate this dish from delicious to truly outstanding!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and quality chicken can make all the difference in flavor. The freshness enhances the overall taste of the dish and makes it more vibrant.
• Pound the chicken: By ensuring your chicken breasts are of even thickness, you promote even cooking. This prevents some parts from drying out while others are undercooked.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps retain its juices. This way, you’ll have moist and tender chicken when it’s time to serve.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. They not only add color but also enrich the dish with additional nutrients and flavors.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the balsamic sauce and tomato mixture ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook, making weeknight dinners even more manageable!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Presenting your one pan balsamic chicken beautifully can make mealtime feel special, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few extra sprigs of fresh basil on top will brighten up your dish and add a lovely aroma.
• Balsamic glaze drizzle: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze adds an elegant touch and an extra burst of flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: While avoiding animal-derived products, consider using a dairy-free parmesan alternative for that cheesy finish without compromising dietary needs.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli tossed in garlic and olive oil complements the savory flavors of the chicken while adding nutritional value.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and lemon juice makes for a light and nutritious side that balances the richness of the meal.
• Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous cooked with vegetable broth and mixed herbs offers a quick and tasty accompaniment that soaks up any leftover sauce beautifully.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with lemon zest provide a zesty contrast to the hearty chicken dish while keeping things simple and healthy.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy an incredible one pan balsamic chicken experience!

Make Ahead and Storage

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only a delightful dish for dinner but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making busy weeknights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep the tomato and mozzarella mixture separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through (about 20 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken:

Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer for convenient meals throughout the week.

What should I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

This flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You could also serve it alongside rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious balsamic sauce!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! One Pan Balsamic Chicken is ideal for meal prep as it reheats well and stays flavorful even after being stored.

Can I substitute ingredients in One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Certainly! Feel free to swap out the grape tomatoes for any seasonal vegetables you enjoy. You can also use different cheeses if preferred—just ensure they align with your dietary choices.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Balsamic Chicken! It’s such a special recipe that brings together simple ingredients into something truly delicious. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, it’s easy to love. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out—happy cooking!