One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Introduction

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, a tangy balsamic sauce, and fresh mozzarella and tomatoes, all cooked in a single pan. It’s a perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a weekend dinner, providing a burst of flavor without requiring too much time or effort. The combination of savory chicken, sweet balsamic vinegar, and creamy mozzarella makes every bite irresistible, while the vibrant, fresh basil and tomatoes add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Not only is this recipe packed with flavor, but it also ensures minimal cleanup, making it a win for both taste and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a gathering, or simply want a satisfying meal, this dish will become a favorite go-to in your kitchen. The balance of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy cooks who don’t want to compromise on taste or quality.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One Pan Cleanup – The simplicity of this recipe means you can cook everything in one pan, saving you time on cleaning.

2. Burst of Flavor – The balsamic vinegar and honey create a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, complementing the chicken beautifully.

3. Fresh Ingredients – With fresh mozzarella, grape tomatoes, and basil, this recipe is loaded with vibrant, wholesome ingredients.

4. Quick and Easy – This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for a busy night.

5. Versatile – You can serve it with your favorite sides, such as pasta, rice, or even a simple salad.

Ingredients

Sauce

• Balsamic vinegar
• Honey
• Oil (such as avocado or olive oil)
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Italian seasoning
• Dijon mustard

Tomato Mozzarella

• Grape tomatoes, halved
• Fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
• Fresh basil, finely chopped

Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
• Avocado oil or other high-heat oil
• Kosher salt and fresh black pepper

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and richer flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the balsamic sauce for a bit of heat to balance the sweetness.
• Different Cheese: Try using burrata or goat cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add Greens: Incorporate spinach or arugula into the dish to boost the greens and make it even more nutrient-dense.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper on both sides.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a golden brown crust.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the prepared balsamic sauce over the chicken breasts. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.

Step 5: Add the Tomato Mozzarella

Add the halved grape tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls to the pan. Let them warm through, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the chicken and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Pound the Chicken: Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
• High-Heat Oil: Use an oil that can withstand high heat, like avocado or grapeseed oil, to prevent burning while searing the chicken.
• Monitor the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking to avoid overcooking. A meat thermometer can help ensure it’s cooked to 165°F internally.
• Let the Sauce Thicken: Allow the balsamic sauce to simmer until it thickens slightly to create a more flavorful glaze on the chicken.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring the chicken gets a nice sear.

How to Serve

Serve this One Pan Balsamic Chicken with a variety of sides. You can pair it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a light side salad. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables. The sauce and cheese make it rich, so a simple green side or a crusty loaf of bread to mop up the sauce is a perfect complement.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, though the texture of the mozzarella may change. To freeze, store the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, or in the microwave until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken to keep it tender.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted, and it’s best to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

2. Can I use a different vinegar instead of balsamic?

You can try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor will differ slightly.

3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, but just heat it through and add the sauce and cheese towards the end.

4. What other vegetables can I add to the pan?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition.

5. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the balsamic sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

7. Can I make this in the oven instead of the stove?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, then add the sauce, tomatoes, and mozzarella to the pan before serving.

8. How do I get the chicken to cook evenly?

Pound the chicken to an even thickness before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly.

9. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of grape tomatoes?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but grape tomatoes hold their shape better and provide more sweetness.

10. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, just make sure your pan is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients, or cook in batches.

Conclusion

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a flavorful, quick, and easy dish that combines tender chicken, a savory-sweet balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant tomatoes. It’s the perfect solution for a busy weeknight or when you want a crowd-pleasing meal with minimal effort and cleanup. Whether you enjoy it with pasta, rice, or a salad, this dish offers versatility, great taste, and plenty of fresh ingredients to keep you coming back for more. Try it today and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal in no time!

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