One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the perfect weeknight dinner that combines simplicity and flavor in one dish. This delightful recipe showcases tender chicken breasts drenched in a rich balsamic glaze, paired with fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish stands out for its quick prep time and easy cleanup, making it a go-to meal for busy nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering sauce that enhances the chicken’s taste.
• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, making it stress-free.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or sides.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it fits well with many dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: Ensures even cooking and allows for seamless transitions from stovetop to oven.
• Whisk: Helps to mix the balsamic sauce evenly, ensuring all flavors are blended perfectly.
• Instant-read thermometer: Guarantees that your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.

Ingredients

Ingredients for One Pan Balsamic Chicken:
– 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
– 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 Balsamic Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients until well combined. Season with kosher salt and fresh black pepper to taste; set aside.

Step 2: Mix Tomatoes and Mozzarella

In another bowl, toss together the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and finely chopped basil. Add salt and pepper as needed; set aside.

Step 3: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 5: Add Tomato Mozzarella Mixture

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

Step 6: Bake

Place the skillet in your preheated oven uncovered:
1. Bake for 18-23 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
2. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this One Pan Balsamic Chicken with your favorite side dishes or simply on its own!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One pan balsamic chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in many ways to suit your family’s taste or the occasion.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze for a classic Italian twist.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Serve the chicken over fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the balsamic sauce.
• Herbed Quinoa: Cook quinoa with herbs for added flavor and a healthy grain option.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

• Balsamic Chicken Wrap: Slice the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite dressing.
• Open-faced Sandwich: Place the chicken on toasted bread and top with mozzarella and basil for an easy meal.

Accompanied by Pasta

• Pasta Primavera: Serve with sautéed seasonal vegetables mixed into pasta for a hearty dish.
• Pesto Pasta: Combine cooked pasta with pesto for a flavorful base beneath the chicken.

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How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Achieving the perfect one pan balsamic chicken is simple with these helpful tips.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh basil and good-quality balsamic vinegar to enhance flavors.
• Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensuring your chicken breasts are of even thickness helps them cook uniformly.
• Don’t Skip Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking ensures juiciness and flavor retention.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing one pan balsamic chicken with complementary sides enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Bright-green asparagus lightly steamed maintains its crunch and pairs nicely with the chicken’s flavor.
4. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing offers a light touch.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Slices of zucchini brushed with olive oil and grilled until tender add freshness to your plate.
6. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up sauces well while adding bulk to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a simple dish, but there are some common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Wrong Temperature: Cooking the chicken at too low a temperature can leave it undercooked. Always preheat your oven to 400 degrees F for the best results.
• Ignoring Thickness: Not pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Take the time to ensure they are uniform for consistent results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve a nice golden crust.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can let juices escape. Allow it to rest for five minutes before slicing for juicy meat.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Not seasoning both sides of the chicken can result in bland flavors. Make sure to season liberally with salt and pepper for a tasty dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for moisture if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Pan Balsamic Chicken:

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, thighs or drumsticks work well too! Adjust cooking time accordingly as they may require longer.

What side dishes go well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Pair it with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal that complements its flavors.

How do I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients!

What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?

You can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it up until baking and then store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve!

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. This versatile recipe allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table! Try it out and enjoy the delightful mix of balsamic glaze and fresh ingredients!