Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken
One-pan balsamic glazed chicken is an incredible option for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich balsamic glaze, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this recipe will impress your loved ones while keeping your prep time to a minimum. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, this meal suits any occasion beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Dish: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: Using simple ingredients like chicken and tomatoes allows you to customize the recipe based on what you have on hand.
- One-Pan Convenience: Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup after dinner, giving you more time to relax.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Below are the necessary items you’ll need for this recipe.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Meat mallet (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to sear the chicken properly and transfer it directly to the oven without needing another dish.
- Whisk: Perfect for combining sauce ingredients quickly and efficiently, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for prepping ingredients separately before combining them in the skillet.
Ingredients
For the Balsamic Sauce
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp. honey
- 2 Tbsp. oil, such as avocado or olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
For the Chicken and Vegetables
- 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
- 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
How to Make Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine Tomatoes and Mozzarella
In a separate bowl, toss together the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) so it’s ready for cooking.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat oil over medium-high heat in your large oven-safe skillet. Season chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper to taste. Once hot and shimmering, add chicken in a single layer:
1. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden brown.
2. Pour in the prepared balsamic sauce mixture; it should come to a simmer.
3. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Add Tomato-Mozzarella Mixture
Immediately remove the skillet from heat and spread the tomato-mozzarella mixture over the seared chicken.
Step 6: Bake Until Cooked Through
Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken!
How to Serve Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken
Serving balsamic glazed one pan chicken is simple and can be adjusted to suit your preferences. This dish pairs well with various sides, enhancing its flavors and creating a wholesome meal.
With Fresh Greens
- Mixed Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing accompaniment.
- Arugula with Lemon: A peppery arugula salad dressed with lemon juice complements the sweetness of the chicken.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Garlic Rice: Fluffy garlic rice offers a wonderful base to soak up the balsamic sauce.
- Herbed Quinoa: Cooked quinoa mixed with herbs adds texture and nutrition to your plate.
With Pasta
- Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta can provide a colorful, healthy side.
- Lemon Butter Noodles: Simple buttered noodles finished with lemon zest enhance the dish’s richness.
As Sandwiches
- Balsamic Chicken Sandwiches: Shred the chicken, add mozzarella and tomatoes, and serve on crusty bread for a delicious sandwich.
- Wraps with Veggies: Use tortillas to create wraps filled with chicken, lettuce, and your favorite sauce.
How to Perfect Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken
To achieve the best results when making balsamic glazed one pan chicken, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and ripe tomatoes elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
- Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensuring your chicken is of even thickness promotes consistent cooking throughout.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest before slicing allows juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before adding it to ensure it meets your preference for saltiness and sweetness.
Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken
Pairing the right side dishes with balsamic glazed one pan chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized bring color and nutrition to your meal.
- Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta adds a comforting element that complements the tangy chicken beautifully.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides crunch and is a healthy addition to balance flavors.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds texture and richness.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach offers a quick, nutritious side that pairs well in flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the pounded chicken: Not pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Always pound them for consistent results.
- Overcooking the chicken: Chicken can dry out if cooked too long. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without overcooking.
- Using low-quality vinegar: A poor-quality balsamic vinegar won’t give you the rich flavor you desire. Choose a good-quality balsamic for the best taste.
- Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season the chicken and vegetables properly can lead to bland flavors. Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Omitting fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a delightful touch. Don’t skip it, as dried herbs cannot replicate its vibrant flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken, here are some common questions:
How do I make Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken more flavorful?
You can add extra herbs or spices, such as rosemary or thyme, to enhance the flavor profile.
Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes! This recipe works well with thighs or drumsticks; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
What should I serve with Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken?
Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total time is about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking.
Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely! It features lean chicken and fresh ingredients, making it a nutritious option for dinner.
Final Thoughts
Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Balsamic Glazed One Pan Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that transforms your weeknight dinners into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 8 oz grape tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh basil
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, Italian seasoning, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the sauce.
- Toss halved grape tomatoes and mozzarella balls with chopped basil in another bowl. Season lightly.
- Heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour the balsamic sauce over the chicken and bring to a simmer.
- Top with the tomato-mozzarella mixture and transfer to the oven.
- Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
