One Pan Balsamic Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re in for a treat with this One Pan Balsamic Chicken! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines juicy chicken with vibrant tomatoes and gooey mozzarella, all drenched in a zesty balsamic sauce. It’s not just tasty, but also perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish is a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings too! The way the balsamic vinegar marries with honey creates an irresistible glaze that everyone loves. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, which means less cleanup—always a win in my book!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal and relax with loved ones.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients makes each bite unforgettable.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will adore this dish thanks to its delicious flavors and fun presentation.
• Make Ahead Option: Prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time for an even quicker dinner solution!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients that make this One Pan Balsamic Chicken shine!

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 and Toppings

• 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

Variations

The beauty of One Pan Balsamic Chicken lies in its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, feel free to use feta or goat cheese!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat if you like your meals with an extra zing.

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. This sauce is key—it brings all those wonderful flavors together! Season with salt and pepper to taste before setting it aside.

Step 2: Mix the Toppings

In another bowl, toss together the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. A sprinkle of salt and pepper will enhance their natural flavors. Set this aside too; it’s going to be delightful when layered over your chicken!

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F while you get everything ready. A hot oven is essential for achieving perfectly cooked chicken.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add your high-heat oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet when the oil is shimmering. Searing them will give that lovely golden brown crust that adds both texture and flavor!

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Once both sides are lightly golden (about 1-2 minutes per side), pour your prepared balsamic sauce into the skillet. It should start simmering right away—this is where all those delicious flavors begin to meld together!

Step 6: Layer It Up

Remove the pan from heat and gently layer the tomato mozzarella mixture right over the chicken. This step not only looks beautiful but allows all those toppings to melt into perfection as they bake.

Step 7: Bake It All Together

Pop your skillet into the preheated oven uncovered for about 18-23 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165F). Once done, let it rest for five minutes before serving; this helps keep everything juicy!

Now you have a wonderful One Pan Balsamic Chicken ready to impress! Enjoy every savory bite with family or friends!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Creating a delicious one-pan balsamic chicken is a breeze when you follow these helpful tips!

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Ensuring your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness allows them to cook uniformly, preventing any parts from drying out while others remain undercooked.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choosing fresh basil and ripe grape tomatoes enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish, making it more vibrant and appealing.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Every palate is different! Feel free to modify salt, pepper, or even add extra herbs to suit your preferences—personalizing this dish will make it even more enjoyable.
• Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken beforehand and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours for an even richer flavor.

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Serving one pan balsamic chicken can be as creative as you like! Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: A few whole leaves of fresh basil on top not only add a pop of color but also enhance the aroma.
• Balsamic Drizzle: A light drizzle of balsamic reduction over the plated chicken adds an elegant touch and intensifies the flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots in olive oil and garlic before roasting. Their natural sweetness complements the balsamic chicken beautifully.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon makes for a light yet satisfying side that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs provides a great base that soaks up any extra balsamic sauce from the chicken.
• Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans dressed with a bit of olive oil and sea salt offer crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of your main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your one-pan balsamic chicken will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on your dinner table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat this delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, cut the chicken into portions.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken!

Can I use other vegetables with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything cooks evenly.

How long does One Pan Balsamic Chicken last in the fridge?

One Pan Balsamic Chicken will last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken in advance and store it in the fridge. It’s also great for meal prep!

What can I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this One Pan Balsamic Chicken as delightful and easy to make as I do! It’s truly a special dish that brings together wonderful flavors while keeping things simple. Enjoy making this recipe for your family or friends – I’m sure they will love it just as much as you will! Happy cooking!