One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. This dish combines juicy chicken with a tangy balsamic sauce, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all cooked in one pan. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a simple family meal, this recipe fits any occasion seamlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• One-Pan Wonder: Save on cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet—easy to make and even easier to clean!
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh herbs creates a rich taste that your family will love.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits everyone’s tastes.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, this dish is nourishing without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful One Pan Balsamic Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

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 and then transfer it straight to the oven for baking without needing additional cookware.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine the sauce ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for preparing your sauce and tossing the garnish without making a mess.
• Wooden spoon: Use this for scraping up delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan while cooking.

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 Garnish

• 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

1. In a bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Mixture

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

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat avocado oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet.
2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
3. Once hot and shimmering, add chicken in a single layer.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.
5. Pour in the balsamic sauce mixture; it should quickly come to a simmer while scraping up any brown bits from the pan.

Step 5: Add Tomato Mixture

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

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F. 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 perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Serve with Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: Add crispy romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons for a classic pairing.

Pair with Rice or Grains

• Couscous: Fluffy couscous soaks up the balsamic sauce beautifully and adds texture.
• Quinoa: A nutritious grain that complements the chicken while adding protein.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is fantastic for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
• Crusty French Baguette: Perfect for sopping up every last bit of balsamic goodness.

Top with Extra Flavor

• Extra Basil: Finely chopped fresh basil on top adds freshness and color.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated parmesan enhances the dish’s richness.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To achieve the best results with your one pan balsamic chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Season both sides of the chicken well with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
• Use high-quality balsamic vinegar: The better the vinegar, the richer the taste. Opt for a thick, aged variety.
• Pound chicken evenly: Ensures even cooking and prevents dry spots by making all pieces uniform in thickness.
• Monitor cooking time: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
• Customize veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

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

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic make a comforting side.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and crunch without overpowering the main dish.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender for a sophisticated touch.
4. Herbed Couscous Salad: A vibrant salad mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil provides bright flavors.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with garlic is healthy and pairs well with balsamic flavors.
6. Grilled Zucchini Skewers: Marinate zucchini slices, grill them, and serve alongside for a smoky taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is easy to make, but there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to avoid pitfalls.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165F.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can result in bland chicken. Always season your ingredients generously for enhanced flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold chicken straight from the fridge can lower pan temperature. Allow chicken to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking.
• Not Scraping the Pan: Forgetting to scrape up browned bits can miss out on rich flavor. Always use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan with balsamic sauce.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can dull the dish’s brightness. Opt for fresh basil for a vibrant finish.
• Crowding the Pan: Placing too much chicken in one pan can cause uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for each piece of chicken to cook properly.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines chicken with balsamic vinegar, honey, tomatoes, and mozzarella—all cooked in one pan for an easy cleanup.

How can I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You could also substitute chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.

Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything ahead of time and store it separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just assemble and bake when needed.

What do I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. This dish allows room for creativity with ingredients and sides, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. We encourage you to try this simple recipe and add your unique twist!

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One Pan Balsamic Chicken

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One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution, blending juicy chicken with a tangy balsamic sauce, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella—all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy families or entertaining guests. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a cooking duration under an hour, you can serve a delicious meal that suits any occasion. Pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dining experience.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 8 oz grape tomatoes
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
• 2 Tbsp avocado oil
• Fresh basil and parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper; set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, chopped basil; season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; sear on both sides until golden brown (about 1-2 minutes per side).
5. Pour balsamic sauce over the chicken; bring to a simmer while scraping the pan.
6. Top with tomato mixture; bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Customize by adding vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for richer flavor. Let the chicken sit at room temperature before cooking for even results.