One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the rich tang of balsamic vinegar with the savory goodness of chicken. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With its cheesy topping and a burst of fresh flavors, this recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a hearty dose of protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to keep their meals nutritious and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This dish requires minimal prep time and only one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and spices creates a rich and tangy glaze that elevates the chicken.
• High Protein Content: With over 61g of protein per serving, it’s perfect for muscle gain or maintaining a healthy diet.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with a side salad, pasta, or even on its own for a fulfilling meal.
• Family-Friendly: Its cheesy and savory flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make One Pan Balsamic Chicken effectively, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these items will ensure your cooking process goes smoothly and efficiently.

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: Ideal for searing the chicken before baking, ensuring even cooking and flavor retention.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without mess, allowing for easy preparation of sauces and toppings.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities, crucial for achieving balanced flavors in your dish.

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Ingredients

This aromatic balsamic chicken is cheesy, tangy, flavorful and full of nutrition. With whooping 61g of protein per serving, it makes for a delicious, quick dinner. Gluten-free and high protein.

For the Balsamic Sauce

• 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

For the Topping

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella
• 2 cups grape tomatoes (halved)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)

For the Chicken

• 2 lb chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, pounded to even thickness)
• Sea salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Balsamic Sauce

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

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

In another mixing bowl:
1. Tear mozzarella into pieces using your hands.
2. Add halved grape tomatoes and chopped basil.
3. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Toss all ingredients together to combine evenly.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat up a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add vegetable oil to the skillet until heated.
3. Season chicken breasts with sea salt and black pepper.
4. Place chicken in the skillet in a single layer.
5. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients in Skillet

1. Swirl the balsamic mixture again before pouring it over the chicken.
2. Allow it to come to a simmer while scraping off any browning from the pan.

Step 6: Bake in Oven

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

Step 7: Serve

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

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not just a flavorful main dish; it can be served in various ways to suit your dining preferences. Here are some creative serving ideas that will enhance this delicious meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.

Over Quinoa or Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy quinoa or rice to soak up the balsamic sauce, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair the dish with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.

In a Wrap

• Slice the chicken and wrap it in a whole grain tortilla with fresh veggies and a smear of hummus for a delightful lunch option.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fresh spinach for an elegant presentation that also boosts your meal’s nutritional value.

Topped with Avocado

• Add sliced avocado on top of the chicken for creamy texture and healthy fats that complement the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

For those looking to elevate their One Pan Balsamic Chicken, consider these helpful tips to ensure perfection every time you cook it.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality balsamic vinegar will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Pound chicken evenly: Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for even cooking throughout.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the oven while baking; overcooked chicken can become dry.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest after baking for 3-5 minutes to keep it juicy and tender.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences or add your favorite spices.
• Use leftovers creatively: Incorporate leftover chicken into salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes for easy meal prep options.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing your One Pan Balsamic Chicken with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs well with the tangy balsamic flavors.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the chicken dish.

3. Cauliflower Rice
   This low-carb alternative offers a light texture that absorbs excess sauce beautifully, making each bite delightful.

4. Couscous Salad
   A couscous salad mixed with cucumbers, herbs, and lemon juice brings freshness that complements the savory elements of the main dish.

5. Zucchini Noodles
   Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and garlic creates a healthy noodle option that is both filling and nutritious.

6. Sweet Potato Wedges
   Crispy sweet potato wedges add sweetness and crunch, contrasting nicely with the savory notes of balsamic chicken.

7. Grilled Asparagus
   Quick-grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides an elegant touch that enhances the overall presentation of your meal.

8. Pea Salad
   A refreshing pea salad with mint and feta crumbles offers a bright flavor profile that pairs well with the richness of balsamic chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish, but avoiding common mistakes can make it even better. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Bold seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken adequately can lead to blandness. Always ensure you season with salt and pepper generously before cooking.
• Bold cooking temperature – Cooking at too low of a temperature may prevent the chicken from browning properly. Ensure your skillet is preheated over medium-high heat for the best results.
• Bold overcooking – Overcooking the chicken leads to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for juicy chicken.
• Bold neglecting the simmer – Skipping the simmering step after adding the balsamic mixture can result in uneven flavor distribution. Let it simmer briefly to enhance the taste.
• Bold ignoring resting time – Cutting into the chicken right away can cause juices to escape. Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store One Pan Balsamic Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat in a baking dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop – Heat on medium-low in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken:

How do I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products. Always check labels on store-bought ingredients like mustard.

Can I use different proteins for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even use lamb for a different flavor profile while keeping the cooking method similar.

What side dishes pair well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Great sides include steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. They complement the rich flavors beautifully.

Can I prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prep other ingredients in advance for quick cooking later.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile and easy to customize. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings according to your taste. Try this delicious recipe soon!