One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a savory balsamic sauce, then topped with a vibrant combination of grape tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. With just one skillet needed, cleanup is a breeze, making this a convenient option for any meal.
Reason to Try One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One Pan Balsamic Chicken offers a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. The tangy sweetness of the balsamic vinegar and honey sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken and fresh tomato-mozzarella topping. Plus, since it’s all cooked in one pan, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
Summary of Ingredients
- Balsamic vinegar
- Honey
- Oil (such as avocado or olive oil)
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Dijon mustard
- Grape tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- Fresh basil
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Avocado oil or other high-heat oil
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
Serving Suggestions
One Pan Balsamic Chicken can be served hot straight from the skillet, accompanied by your favorite side dishes. Try pairing it with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
One Pan Balsamic Chicken Storage Info
Any leftovers of One Pan Balsamic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in the microwave or oven until heated through. Keep in mind that the tomatoes and mozzarella may release some moisture when reheated.
Techniques or Tips
- Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- When cooking the chicken, be sure to sear it on both sides until lightly golden brown. This will help lock in the juices and develop flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should register at 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
- For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the balsamic sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
Variation
Feel free to customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken to suit your preferences. You can add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the tomato-mozzarella topping for extra color and nutrition. You can also substitute different types of cheese, such as feta or Parmesan, for the mozzarella for a unique twist.
FAQs about One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may cook slightly faster than breasts.
Q: Can I make this recipe without an oven-safe skillet?
A: If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the chicken and tomato-mozzarella mixture to a baking dish before baking in the oven. Just make sure to scrape up any brown bits from the skillet to incorporate into the sauce.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the balsamic sauce and tomato-mozzarella topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply assemble and bake the dish when you’re ready to serve.
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
Ingredients
- - Sauce:
- - 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- - 2 tablespoons honey
- - 2 tablespoons oil avocado or olive oil
- - 2 garlic cloves minced
- - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- - Tomato Mozzarella Mixture:
- - 8 oz. grape tomatoes halved
- - 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls ciliegine or pearls
- - 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil
- - Chicken:
- - 2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- - 2 tablespoons avocado oil or other high-heat oil
- - Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Whisk together sauce ingredients in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season chicken with salt and pepper. When oil is hot, add chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly golden brown.
- Add balsamic sauce mixture to the skillet. It should simmer quickly. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom.
- Remove skillet from heat and add tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
