Name: One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 Tbsp. honey; 2 Tbsp. oil, such as avocado or olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp. Italian seasoning; 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard; 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved; 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls); 2 Tbsp. fresh basil, finely chopped; 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness); 2 Tbsp. avocado oil (or other high-heat oil); Kosher salt; fresh black pepper

Introduction to One Pan Balsamic Chicken

What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts baked to golden perfection, tossed with vibrant grape tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. What makes this dish stand out is the rich, tangy balsamic vinegar sauce that seeps into every bite, creating an explosion of flavor that’s both refreshing and hearty. Ideal for weeknight meals, this recipe requires minimal cleanup, as everything comes together in a single skillet. And the best part? It’s as simple as it is delicious.

Why is it perfect for young professionals?

If you’re a young professional navigating a busy lifestyle, this one pan balsamic chicken recipe is your new best friend. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 30, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in under an hour. Plus, utilizing just one pan means less dishwashing—a major perk after a long workday! Whether you’re hosting friends, cooking for yourself, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish ticks all the boxes for convenience and taste.

For more tips on meal prepping and easy weeknight dinners, check out resources from Meal Prep on Fleek and The Kitchn.

Ingredients for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Main Ingredients Overview

To create your delicious one pan balsamic chicken, you'll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients that combine beautifully. Here’s what’s on your shopping list:

Balsamic vinegar: This is the star of the dish, bringing that sweet and tangy kick.
Honey: Adds a delightful sweetness that balances out the acidity.
Olive oil: A must for sautéing the chicken and infused in the sauce.
Garlic: Minced cloves for that aromatic flavor.
Italian seasoning: This blend enhances the overall herbaceous note.
Dijon mustard: For a subtle depth and zing.
Grape tomatoes and fresh mozzarella: These fresh ingredients add texture and creaminess.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein in the dish.

This combination is not only straightforward but also prepares you to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal!

Optional Additions and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas to customize your one pan balsamic chicken:

Vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
Herbs: Fresh thyme or oregano can lend their unique profiles.
Cheese variations: If you prefer a stronger flavor, try feta instead of mozzarella.
Sweetener alternatives: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey for a different flavor.

Embrace the flexibility of this recipe to make it your own, and you might just stumble upon a new family favorite! For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out Daring Gourmet for great ideas.

Preparing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Making one pan balsamic chicken is an easy and satisfying way to enjoy a delicious weeknight meal without too much fuss. Here’s how to prepare this dish in just a few simple steps.

Gather Your Ingredients

Start by collecting everything you’ll need for this recipe. Here’s your shopping list:

For the Sauce:
⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons oil (avocado or olive oil works well)
2 minced garlic cloves
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
For the Tomato Mozzarella Mixture:
8 oz. grape tomatoes (halved)
8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
For the Chicken:
2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
2 tablespoons avocado oil (for sautéing)
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Ensure you have everything at hand before you begin—this will make for a smoother cooking experience!

Make the Balsamic Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce will not only add flavor but also create a delicious glaze for your chicken, making the dish irresistible. Set this tangy mixture aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Prepare the Chicken

For the chicken to cook evenly and become tender, it’s essential to pound it to an even thickness. Place each breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag and gently pound them with a mallet or rolling pin. This step not only helps with cooking but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in juicy chicken.

Sauté the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet in a single layer. Sauté the chicken for about 1–2 minutes on each side until it’s lightly golden brown. Then pour in the balsamic sauce, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for a minute while scraping up any brown bits from the pan.

Combine and Bake

Next, remove your skillet from the heat and scatter the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken. Pop the skillet into your preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest for five minutes before serving. The combination of sweet balsamic, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella will make this dish a standout at your dinner table.

Enjoy a hassle-free and delicious meal with minimal cleanup by following these straightforward steps to prepare your one pan balsamic chicken! For more delightful recipes like this, check out Serious Eats for creative cooking ideas.

Variations on One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Adding Seasonal Vegetables

To elevate your one pan balsamic chicken, consider incorporating seasonal vegetables. Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers are fantastic options that roast beautifully alongside the chicken. Not only do they absorb the delicious balsamic flavors, but they also enhance the dish's nutrition profile. Just toss the veggies in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and add them to your skillet before baking—a simple tweak that brightens up your meal!

Swapping Proteins

Feeling adventurous? Switch up your protein choice! While chicken is undoubtedly the star of this recipe, you can experiment with turkey breast for a leaner option or even plant-based proteins like chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Each variation brings a new flavor to the table, keeping your one pan balsamic chicken recipe exciting and versatile. The key is to adjust your cooking time depending on your protein choice to ensure it's perfectly cooked.

Cooking tips and notes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Ensuring juicy chicken

To achieve perfectly juicy chicken in your one pan balsamic chicken, make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This helps ensure that they cook uniformly and retain moisture. A quick tip: using a meat mallet can be therapeutic and fun! Also, don't skip the resting step after baking; it allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.

Tips for quick prep

For a speedy evening meal, prep your ingredients in advance. Chop your tomatoes and basil, and whisk together the sauce ingredients ahead of time. You can even marinate the chicken early for added flavor. Using pre-packaged mozzarella balls can also save you time. Check out this link for more handy kitchen tips to streamline your cooking process!

Serving Suggestions for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Ideal Accompaniments

Pairing your One Pan Balsamic Chicken with the right sides can elevate a simple meal into something spectacular. Consider serving it with:

Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and nutrients.
Quinoa or Couscous: These grains soak up the sauce beautifully and provide a hearty base.
A Fresh Salad: A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette keeps everything bright and light.

Creative Plating Ideas

Presentation matters, especially for a colorful dish like One Pan Balsamic Chicken. Here are some ideas to make your meal pop:

Layering: Serve the chicken atop a fluffy bed of quinoa, with the tomato mozzarella mix artfully arranged beside it.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic reduction adds elegance.
Contrast: Use a vibrant plate to enhance the dish’s rich colors, creating a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

For more ideas on smart pairings, check out EatingWell. Enjoy your cooking!

Time Breakdown for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting ready for this one pan balsamic chicken is a breeze! In just 15 minutes, you can measure, mix, and prepare all the ingredients you'll need. Take your time to enjoy the chopping; it’s a great way to unwind after a busy day.

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, the cooking part is quick! It takes 30 minutes from start to finish, with the chicken taking center stage in the oven. Sit back and relax as delightful aromas fill your kitchen during baking.

Total Time

In total, you'll spend 45 minutes from prep to plating. This means a delicious, home-cooked meal can be yours in no time—perfect for your weeknight dinners! Discover more cooking tips here and elevate your culinary game!

Nutritional Facts for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Calories and Macros

One serving of one pan balsamic chicken provides approximately 380 calories. It’s a well-balanced option packed with:

Protein: 40.3 g
Fat: 17.2 g
Carbohydrates: 11.6 g
Sugar: 9.4 g
Sodium: 530.2 mg
Cholesterol: 93.5 mg

This dish is a flavorful way to hit your nutritional goals!

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

The star of this recipe, balsamic vinegar, is not just a tasty addition; it's rich in antioxidants that can support heart health. The chicken breasts provide a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

Balsamic vinegar: Known for its ability to lower blood sugar levels, it's a smart choice for those monitoring their glycemic load.
Tomatoes: Loaded with vitamin C and lycopene, tomatoes can aid in skin health and may even reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Mozzarella: Offers calcium and protein, making it a great part of a balanced diet.

For detailed health benefits of chicken and its nutritional value, check out Healthline's guide on chicken.

By choosing one pan balsamic chicken, you’re not only simplifying dinner prep but also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients!

FAQs about One Pan Balsamic Chicken

How long can I store leftovers?

You can store your One Pan Balsamic Chicken leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day!

Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! One Pan Balsamic Chicken is fantastic for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and divide it into individual portions. Just reheat it in the microwave or oven when you're ready to enjoy! Pair it with some whole grains or veggies, and you have a complete meal at your fingertips.

What other sauces can I use?

While balsamic vinegar creates a unique flavor for this dish, don’t hesitate to get creative! You can try marinades like lemon herb or teriyaki sauce. Different sauces will bring their own twist to the chicken, so feel free to experiment and find what suits your palate best!

Conclusion on One Pan Balsamic Chicken

In summary, one pan balsamic chicken is a delightful dish that combines convenience with incredible flavor. Whether you're winding down after a busy day or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. It's a weeknight dinner that brings everyone together, effortlessly. Ready to make it your new favorite?