One Pan Balsamic Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, you’ve landed in the right place! One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a favorite in my household, and it’s not hard to see why. This dish brings together juicy chicken, sweet balsamic glaze, and vibrant veggies—all in one pan! It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also versatile enough for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends. I love how the tangy balsamic sauce pairs beautifully with the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes. Trust me, this meal will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients creates a dish bursting with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this savory and hearty meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for an easy reheat during busy weekdays!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious One Pan Balsamic Chicken. You might already have many of these items in your kitchen!

For the Balsamic Sauce

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. honey
• 2 Tbsp. oil (like avocado or olive oil)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

For the Chicken and Veggies

• 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

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breast or chicken thighs if you prefer! Both options work great with this recipe.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try feta or goat cheese for a different flavor twist that still complements the balsamic sauce.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a kick that balances well with the sweetness of the honey.

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients—balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial because it sets the flavor base for your entire dish!

Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Mozzarella

In another bowl, toss together the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and freshly chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper as well. This mix adds freshness that beautifully complements the savory chicken.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that lovely golden brown color.

Step 4: Sauté the Chicken

Heat your chosen oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook until lightly golden brown—this step locks in flavors through caramelization!

Step 5: Add Balsamic Sauce

Once your chicken is ready, pour in that delicious balsamic sauce mixture you made earlier—it should start simmering right away! Use a wooden spoon to scrape any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan; those add incredible depth to your sauce.

Step 6: Top with Tomato Mozzarella Mix

Carefully remove the pan from heat and layer on top your tomato-mozzarella mixture over the chicken. This will bake beautifully as everything melds together!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop your skillet into the preheated oven for about 18-23 minutes until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (75C). Let it rest for five minutes before serving—it helps keep all those juices locked inside!

Now you have a delightful One Pan Balsamic Chicken ready to be enjoyed by family or friends! It’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Making a delicious one-pan balsamic chicken is easier than you might think! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use high-quality balsamic vinegar: A good balsamic vinegar will add depth and richness to your sauce. Opt for one that’s thick and sweet for the best flavor.
• Pound the chicken evenly: This ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly, preventing any dry or undercooked pieces. Even thickness also helps with marinating!
• Don’t skip the resting period: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender bite.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. They’ll soak up the balsamic goodness while enhancing nutrition.
• Leftover magic: Use any leftovers for salads or wraps the next day. The flavors intensify as they sit, making for an even tastier meal!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

This flavorful dish not only tastes amazing but also presents beautifully. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Adding a few whole basil leaves on top provides a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving enhances the overall taste and adds a nice visual touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus tossed in garlic and olive oil pairs perfectly with the tangy chicken, adding crunch and freshness.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of balsamic chicken wonderfully.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the dish’s acidity, making each bite delightful.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green color and balances out the meal with its slight bitterness.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll elevate your one-pan balsamic chicken into a memorable dining experience that’s sure to impress family and friends! Enjoy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not just a delectable dish; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Divide into portions and place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power until heated evenly.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones that might help you with your One Pan Balsamic Chicken experience!

Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken without honey?

Absolutely! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness without using honey.

What can I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

This flavorful dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative!

How do I know when my One Pan Balsamic Chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy to ensure it’s perfectly cooked!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Pan Balsamic Chicken! It’s not only simple and quick but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experiences!