One Pan Balsamic Chicken

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of cheesy, tangy flavors, making it a perfect choice for any dinner occasion. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also packs a nutritious punch with a whopping 61g of protein per serving. This dish is gluten-free and offers a delicious way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of balsamic vinegar and fresh ingredients creates an explosion of flavor.
• Healthy Meal Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish supports your health goals.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs for added variety.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure the best results while making your One Pan Balsamic Chicken, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to sear the chicken and transfer it directly to the oven without needing extra dishes.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements for consistent flavor every time.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping garlic, basil, and other fresh ingredients safely.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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

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 Cheese Mixture

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

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add vegetable oil and allow it to heat up.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper before adding them to the skillet in a single layer.
4. Cook each side for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Add Balsamic Mixture

1. Pour the prepared balsamic mixture over the browned chicken in the skillet.
2. Allow it to come to a simmer while scraping off any browning from the pan.

Step 6: Bake with Cheese Mixture

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

Step 7: Serve

Let it sit for 3–5 minutes before serving to lock in flavors. Enjoy your delicious One Pan Balsamic Chicken!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a flavorful dish that can be served in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch.
• Caesar Salad: This classic salad complements the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully.

Accompany with Grains

• Quinoa: A nutritious grain that absorbs the balsamic sauce well, making every bite delightful.
• Brown Rice: This hearty option balances the meal while providing additional fiber.

Add Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted Broccoli: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli adds a nutritious and delicious side.
• Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Mix bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a colorful and tasty addition to your plate.

Enhance with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory balsamic sauce; this bread is always a hit.
• Crusty Artisan Bread: A warm loaf pairs wonderfully with the chicken and makes for an excellent side.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To make your One Pan Balsamic Chicken even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season generously with salt and pepper. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Uniform Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking and tenderness.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for richer flavor and fresher mozzarella for creaminess.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest after baking. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your oven’s temperature accuracy, check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F).
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor complexity.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

When planning your meal, consider these delicious side dishes to serve alongside One Pan Balsamic Chicken. They complement the main dish perfectly!

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh taste and vibrant color on your plate.
3. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables and herbs adds texture and flavor balance.
4. Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative that soaks up sauces excellently while adding freshness.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with the tangy chicken.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach tossed in olive oil is nutrient-packed and complements rich flavors beautifully.
7. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich salad filled with chickpeas, cucumber, and tomatoes brings brightness to your meal.
8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and a fun touch to any dinner plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan Balsamic Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Not Pounding the Chicken: Failing to pound the chicken breasts can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to pound them to even thickness for consistent results.
• Skipping the Marinade: Rushing through the marinade process can result in less flavor. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking for better taste.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring proper air circulation.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking the internal temperature of the chicken can lead to undercooking or overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Opting for low-quality mozzarella can affect texture and flavor. Choose fresh mozzarella for a creamier, tastier dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium heat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, covered, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Pan Balsamic Chicken:

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! This recipe works well with chicken, turkey, or even beef. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on the type of meat used.

How can I customize the flavors?

You can add different herbs like thyme or rosemary, or swap balsamic vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a unique twist.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! The One Pan Balsamic Chicken is gluten-free as it contains no gluten-based ingredients.

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

This chicken pairs nicely with salads, roasted vegetables, or quinoa for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile and packed with protein. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or changing up the seasonings. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners!