One Pan Balsamic Chicken

This recipe for One Pan Balsamic Chicken is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. Its cheesy, tangy flavor makes it appealing for family meals, weeknight dinners, or even entertaining guests. With only one pan needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. This dish is not only high in protein but also gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of balsamic vinegar and fresh mozzarella creates a savory dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Healthy Choice: With 61g of protein per serving and packed with nutritious ingredients, this meal supports a balanced diet.
• Versatile: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to customize it to your liking.
• One Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan means less hassle and easy cleanup after enjoying a delightful meal.

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Tools and Preparation

To get started on your One Pan Balsamic Chicken, gather the necessary tools. Using the right equipment will ensure that you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This tool allows you to sear the chicken perfectly before transferring it directly to the oven for baking.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining sauces and tossing ingredients together efficiently before cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision in measuring ensures that all ingredients are used in the right proportions for optimal flavor.

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 Marinade

• 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 Cooking the Chicken

• 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 your oven to 400F. This step ensures that your chicken cooks evenly once placed in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Balsamic vinegar
2. Honey
3. Olive oil
4. Minced garlic
5. Italian seasoning
6. Onion powder
7. Garlic powder
8. Dijon mustard

Step 3: Combine Topping Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Tear mozzarella into pieces with your hands.
2. Add halved grape tomatoes and chopped basil.
3. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Toss all of the ingredients together until well combined.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

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

Step 5: Add Marinade to Chicken

Give the balsamic vinegar mixture another swirl:
1. Pour it over the chicken in the skillet.
2. Let it come to a simmer while scraping off any browning from the pan.

Step 6: Bake with Toppings

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

Step 7: Serve

Let it sit for 3-5 minutes before serving to enhance flavor fusion.
Enjoy your delicious One Pan Balsamic Chicken!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• A light, mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken.

Over Pasta

• Serve the chicken and sauce over whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a hearty meal. The balsamic glaze enhances the pasta beautifully.

With Quinoa

• For a healthy twist, serve the chicken on a bed of quinoa. Its nutty flavor complements the dish perfectly and adds more protein.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap pieces of chicken with some mozzarella and tomatoes for a fresh bite.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To ensure your One Pan Balsamic Chicken turns out perfectly, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and ripe grape tomatoes will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Pound Chicken Evenly: Make sure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken in the oven; overcooking can lead to dry meat.
• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 3-5 minutes after baking; this helps retain moisture in the chicken.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; feel free to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing side dishes with One Pan Balsamic Chicken can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that balances the tanginess of the chicken.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a satisfying crunch alongside the tender chicken.

3. Roasted Asparagus
   Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances any plate with its earthy flavor and bright green color.

4. Brown Rice
   Nutty brown rice is a wholesome option that soaks up the balsamic glaze beautifully, making each bite flavorful.

5. Cauliflower Rice
   A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice is healthy and absorbs flavors well, making it a perfect match for this dish.

6. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread serves as a delightful accompaniment, perfect for dipping into any leftover balsamic sauce!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking One Pan Balsamic Chicken is simple, but there are a few common mistakes you should avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the pounded chicken: Not pounding your chicken breasts can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure they are all of even thickness for perfect results.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season both sides of the chicken can result in bland flavor. Always remember to add salt and pepper generously.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many pieces of chicken in the skillet can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for that crispy exterior.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken right after baking can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for 3-5 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Rushing the balsamic sauce: Pouring the sauce over without simmering can lead to a less developed flavor. Allow it to simmer briefly before adding it to the chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover One Pan Balsamic Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Ensure it’s well-wrapped or placed in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken.

What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish made with chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful balsamic vinegar sauce, topped with mozzarella and tomatoes.

How long does One Pan Balsamic Chicken take to prepare?

The total time for preparing One Pan Balsamic Chicken is approximately 41 minutes, including both prep and cooking time.

Can I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers based on your preference. Adjust herbs and spices as well for extra flavor!

Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses no flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only aromatic and cheesy but also provides an excellent source of protein. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your taste. Try this easy recipe for your next dinner—you won’t be disappointed!