One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients for a nutritious meal. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. With its cheesy, tangy profile and a whopping 63g of protein per serving, you’ll love how satisfying and delicious it is while being gluten-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is required with everything cooked in one pan.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh ingredients creates a robust flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Healthy Option: With high protein content and fresh vegetables, it’s a nourishing choice for any meal.
• Versatile: Perfect to serve with rice, pasta, or a side salad for a complete dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your One Pan Balsamic Chicken, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: Ideal for browning chicken and then transferring directly to the oven without needing another dish.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining sauces and mixing ingredients effectively.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise measurements for balanced flavors in your dish.

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Ingredients

For this One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella
• 2 cups grape tomatoes (halved)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 lb chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, pounded to even thickness)
• Sea salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400F. This allows the chicken to cook evenly once placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Mixture

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Mozzarella Mixture

In another bowl:
1. Tear the mozzarella into pieces by hand.
2. Add in the halved grape tomatoes and chopped basil.
3. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Toss all ingredients together until mixed well.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Heat up the vegetable oil until shimmering.
2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with sea salt and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a single layer in the skillet; cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once browned:
1. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken, let it simmer briefly while scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Add Mozzarella Mixture

Remove from heat:
1. Cover the chicken evenly with the mozzarella mixture prepared earlier.
2. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 18–23 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

After baking:
1. Let it sit for about 3–5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Enjoy your One Pan Balsamic Chicken!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to suit your taste and preferences.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Use mixed greens, spinach, or arugula as a base for the chicken. Drizzle some extra balsamic vinegar for added flavor.

With Quinoa or Rice

• Serve the chicken alongside fluffy quinoa or brown rice. These grains absorb the tasty balsamic sauce beautifully.

In a Wrap

• Shred the chicken and wrap it in a tortilla with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a quick meal on the go.

Paired with Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the chicken with crusty whole-grain bread to soak up the savory juices. This makes for a hearty meal.

As Part of a Salad

• Chop the cooked chicken and toss it into a salad with avocado, nuts, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing dish.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables, which complement its flavors perfectly while adding more nutrition to your plate.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To achieve the best results with your One Pan Balsamic Chicken, follow these helpful tips.

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Ensure all pieces are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking throughout.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes enhances flavor and texture.

• Don’t Skip Preheating: Always preheat your oven before baking for optimal cooking conditions and perfect texture.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps retain its juices, making it more tender and flavorful.

• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust salt and pepper to taste based on your dietary needs or personal preference.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Complement your One Pan Balsamic Chicken with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with the tangy chicken.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering the dish’s flavors; simply steam until tender.

3. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that absorbs flavors beautifully from the chicken.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Cubed sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring sweetness that contrasts nicely with the balsamic glaze.

5. Cauliflower Rice: A great low-calorie alternative that soaks up all those delicious juices from the chicken; just sauté lightly before serving.

6. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with chopped veggies and herbs creates a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Balsamic Chicken, it’s easy to overlook small details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavor. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan – Placing too much chicken in the skillet can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure each piece of chicken is in a single layer for optimal browning.
• Not preheating the oven – Cooking without preheating can result in longer cooking times and inconsistent doneness. Always preheat your oven to 400°F before baking.
• Ignoring resting time – Cutting into the chicken right after it comes out of the oven can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for 3-5 minutes to retain moisture.
• Using old ingredients – Using expired balsamic vinegar or stale spices can dull flavors. Always check freshness before starting your recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion it out for easy defrosting.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding One Pan Balsamic Chicken.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute boneless chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat.

What sides pair well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

This dish complements steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad beautifully.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile. This quick dinner option is packed with protein and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!