One pan balsamic chicken is a delightful and easy weeknight dinner option that brings together tender chicken breasts, burst tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. This dish is perfect for busy evenings or special gatherings. The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar and sweet honey creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love. Plus, it’s made in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.
- One Pan Convenience: With everything cooked in one skillet, you can say goodbye to multiple dishes piling up in the sink.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The harmonious blend of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh herbs elevates this dish to new heights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish supports a balanced diet.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on your one pan balsamic chicken, gather the essential tools needed for preparation. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Meat mallet (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large oven-safe skillet: This tool allows you to sear the chicken and finish cooking it in the oven without transferring to another dish.
- Whisk: A whisk helps create a smooth sauce by thoroughly combining the ingredients.
- Mixing bowls: These are essential for preparing your sauce and tossing the tomatoes and mozzarella together.
- Wooden spoon: Great for scraping up brown bits from the pan and mixing ingredients without scratching your skillet.
Ingredients
One-pan balsamic chicken requires simple yet flavorful ingredients:
- 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:
1. Combine balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard.
2. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Toss the Tomato Mozzarella Mixture
In a separate bowl:
1. Toss together grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
- Heat avocado oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Once the pan is hot and the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.
Step 5: Add Balsamic Sauce
- Pour the balsamic sauce mixture over the seared chicken.
- Allow it to come to a simmer while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
Step 6: Add Tomato Mozzarella Mixture
Immediately remove the pan from heat:
1. Layer the tomato mozzarella mixture over the top of the chicken.
Step 7: Bake
Place the skillet in your preheated oven:
1. Bake uncovered for about 18-23 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
2. Remove from oven and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious one pan balsamic chicken!
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One pan balsamic chicken makes for a delightful meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed with a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Caprese Salad: Sliced fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil complement the chicken’s flavors perfectly.
Accompany with Grains
- Quinoa: This nutty grain is a great source of protein and adds a unique texture to your meal.
- Rice: A side of fluffy white or brown rice can soak up the delicious balsamic sauce.
Add Vegetables
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted until tender, asparagus brings a vibrant color to your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and balances the dish.
Serve with Bread
- Crusty French Bread: Perfect for soaking up the balsamic sauce, crusty bread enhances the meal’s overall enjoyment.
- Garlic Bread: A garlic-infused version can add an aromatic touch that pairs well with this dish.
How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken
To ensure your one pan balsamic chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Evenly Pounded Chicken: Ensuring your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness helps them cook uniformly.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; check for doneness at around 18 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking ensures it remains juicy and tender.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your balsamic sauce before adding it to the chicken; adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Choosing the right sides can enhance your one pan balsamic chicken experience. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide comfort and pair well with the tanginess of the chicken.
- Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with herbs and lemon zest offers a refreshing contrast.
- Grilled Zucchini: Sliced zucchini grilled until tender adds a healthy vegetable option that’s easy to prepare.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potatoes bring a hint of sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
- Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta create a colorful accompaniment filled with nutrients.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach with garlic is nutritious and adds an earthy flavor that rounds out the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a quick and delicious dish, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are mistakes to avoid:
Neglecting Seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken adequately can result in bland flavors. Always season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet can cause steaming rather than searing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that golden brown color.
Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking at too high or too low a temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Use medium-high heat for a perfect sear, then bake at 400°F for even cooking.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale or old ingredients like garlic or herbs won’t give your dish the best flavor. Use fresh basil and quality balsamic vinegar for optimal taste.
Skipping Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Allow resting for about 5 minutes before slicing.
Underestimating Bake Time: Each oven is different; check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F. Adjust baking time as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- This dish will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out; heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken:
What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish where chicken breasts are cooked with balsamic vinegar, honey, fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella—all in one pan.
Can I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap out mozzarella for feta cheese based on your preferences.
How do I know when One Pan Balsamic Chicken is done?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later use.
What sides pair well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also offers incredible flavors that bring joy to any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your tastes, making it a fantastic option for weeknight meals. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy its delightful taste!
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner that delivers both flavor and convenience. This mouthwatering recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, tangy balsamic glaze, complemented by sweet grape tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. With just one pan required, cleanup is quick, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings or special gatherings. The combination of balsamic vinegar and honey creates a delightful balance of acidity and sweetness that will please everyone at the table. Serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 2 Tbsp oil (such as avocado or olive)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 8 oz grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the sauce.
- In another bowl, combine grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; sear on each side until golden brown (about 1-2 minutes).
- Pour balsamic sauce over chicken; bring to a simmer while scraping up brown bits from the pan.
- Layer tomato mozzarella mixture on top of chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce and toppings (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
