One Pan Balsamic Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’ve found it with this One Pan Balsamic Chicken. This recipe has become a staple in our home, especially during those busy weeknights when time seems to vanish. With simple ingredients and just one pan to clean, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of tender chicken, sweet balsamic glaze, and fresh tomatoes makes every bite a celebration.

What makes this dish truly special is how it brings everyone together around the table. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or meal prepping for the week, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip this up in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• One Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and catching up with family or friends.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The balsamic vinegar and honey create a delightful sweetness that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages—kids love the gooey mozzarella, while adults appreciate the fresh flavors.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra portions for easy lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this One Pan Balsamic Chicken, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Let’s gather everything you need:

For the 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

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey cutlets or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, feta or goat cheese would work beautifully too.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to give your dish a little kick!

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside. This sauce will be the star of your dish—it’s tangy yet sweet!

Step 2: Toss Together Tomatoes and Mozzarella

In another bowl, combine grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil. Season with salt and pepper as well. This mixture adds freshness and creaminess that complements the chicken beautifully.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F while preparing everything else so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the pan is hot with shimmering oil, add the chicken in a single layer; cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Bake

Pour your prepared balsamic sauce over the chicken—it should simmer immediately! Use a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits from the pan; they add flavor! Remove from heat then layer that delicious tomato-mozzarella mix on top of the chicken.

Step 6: Final Bake

Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, let it rest for about five minutes before serving—you want those juices to settle!

Enjoy every moment at the table with this delightful One Pan Balsamic Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience, and these tips will help you nail this delicious recipe every time!

• Use room temperature chicken – Letting your chicken sit out for about 15-20 minutes before cooking helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Don’t skip the resting time – Allowing the chicken to rest after baking ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite extra tender and flavorful.
• Adjust the sweetness – If you prefer a tangier flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of honey in the balsamic sauce. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your taste.
• Keep an eye on your oven – Oven temperatures can vary, so check your chicken a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
• Experiment with veggies – Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet for added nutrition and color. They’ll roast beautifully alongside the chicken.

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Serving one pan balsamic chicken is all about presentation. This vibrant dish not only tastes fantastic but also looks gorgeous on the table. Here are some ideas on how to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – A few whole leaves scattered on top add a pop of color and enhance the herbaceous notes of the dish.
• Balsamic glaze drizzle – A light drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished dish provides an elegant finish and extra depth of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the tangy balsamic chicken perfectly, creating a comforting pairing.
• Steamed asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh crunch and bright green color that balances out the richness of the chicken.
• Quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette – This light and zesty salad brings in some whole grains while keeping your meal healthy and satisfying.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts add a delightful nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the sweet-and-tangy flavors of balsamic chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your delicious one pan balsamic chicken!

Make Ahead and Storage

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a fantastic choice for meal prep! Not only does it come together quickly, but you can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the flavors all week long.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken cool completely.
• Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, label the container with the date and contents.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and place the chicken in an oven-safe dish.
• Cover with foil to retain moisture and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken that might help you!

Can I use other types of vinegar instead of balsamic?

Yes! While balsamic adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly.

What sides go well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or whole grains like quinoa or brown rice. Feel free to get creative!

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

The internal temperature should reach 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The chicken should also be no longer pink inside.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Balsamic Chicken as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that brings everyone together at the dinner table. Remember, meal prep can be fun and rewarding, so don’t hesitate to make extra servings for those busy weekdays. Happy cooking!