One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all cooked in one skillet. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a flavorful meal without the hassle of multiple pans. With its tangy balsamic vinegar and sweet honey glaze, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Topping
• How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Sauce
• Step 3: Toss the Tomatoes and Mozzarella
• Step 4: Sear the Chicken
• Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• With Fresh Basil
• Over Pasta
• With Crusty Bread
• On a Salad
• With Seasonal Vegetables
• How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken more flavorful?
• Can I substitute balsamic vinegar?
• What side dishes go well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
• Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: One Pan Balsamic Chicken can be ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one skillet, you spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar and honey creates a deliciously unique taste that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: You can customize this recipe by adding seasonal vegetables or serving it over pasta or with crusty bread.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to sear the chicken perfectly before finishing it off in the oven.
• Mixing bowls: These are essential for preparing your sauces and tossing your ingredients together efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced

For the Topping

• 8 oz grape tomatoes
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly once placed in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Balsamic vinegar
2. Honey
3. Olive oil
4. Minced garlic
5. Salt and pepper

This mixture will serve as the flavorful sauce for your chicken.

Step 3: Toss the Tomatoes and Mozzarella

In another bowl, combine:
1. Grape tomatoes
2. Fresh mozzarella balls
3. Salt and pepper to taste

Toss until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in your large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper:
1. Cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side).
2. Pour the balsamic sauce over the chicken and let it simmer briefly.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

Remove from heat and layer:
1. The tomato mixture over the seared chicken.
2. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven.

Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for an added touch of flavor!

Enjoy your One Pan Balsamic Chicken as a delicious centerpiece for any gathering or family dinner!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only a flavorful dish but also versatile in how you can serve it. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Basil

• Garnish each plate with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.

Over Pasta

• Serve the chicken over a bed of your favorite pasta, allowing the balsamic sauce to mingle with the noodles for added richness.

With Crusty Bread

• Accompany the dish with slices of crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious balsamic sauce.

On a Salad

• Serve it atop a fresh salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a light and healthy option.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Add roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers on the side for extra nutrition and taste.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To achieve the best results with your One Pan Balsamic Chicken, keep these tips in mind:

• Use high-quality balsamic vinegar: A good balsamic will enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

• Let chicken marinate: For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

• Ensure even cooking: Cut chicken breasts to similar sizes for uniform cooking and tenderness throughout.

• Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.

• Add cheese at the right time: Layer mozzarella near the end of baking to avoid overcooking; it should be melted but still hold shape.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing One Pan Balsamic Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a satisfying base that contrasts nicely with tangy chicken.

2. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted until crispy add a nutritious green element to your plate.

3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon dressing brings freshness that balances out the richness of the chicken.

4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and crunch while being an easy side dish to prepare.

5. Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative offers a light texture that pairs well with hearty chicken dishes.

6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate, making this option irresistible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using subpar ingredients can dull the flavors. Always opt for fresh chicken and ripe tomatoes for the best taste.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to blandness. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long will make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
• Using a non-oven-safe skillet: Not all skillets are oven-ready. Ensure yours is suitable for high heat to avoid any mishaps.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken that may help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

How do I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken more flavorful?

Adding herbs like oregano or thyme can enhance the flavor profile. Consider marinating the chicken in balsamic vinegar for a few hours before cooking.

Can I substitute balsamic vinegar?

Yes, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives, but they will impart different flavors.

What side dishes go well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with lean protein from chicken and vitamins from tomatoes, making it a nutritious option for dinner.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Serve it with crusty bread or over pasta for a full meal that your whole family will love. Don’t hesitate to give this delightful recipe a try!