One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Author: Katya
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Yield: 4-6 servings
Category: Main
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Italian
Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner idea that doesn’t require an arsenal of pans or complex techniques? Look no further! This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is your perfect weeknight meal solution. Dive into a delightful mix of flavors where tender chicken meets savory balsamic reduction, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella—all made in one pan!
Why Choose One Pan Meals?
One-pan meals, like this tasty Balsamic Chicken dish, are not only easy to prepare, but they also minimize cleanup. Let’s face it, after a long day, who wants to spend time scrubbing multiple pots and pans? With this recipe, you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and a quick wipe of the skillet at the end—win-win! According to a study by the American Cleaning Institute, cooking can become more enjoyable if you think about how easy the cleanup will be.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
For a dish that shines so brightly, the ingredients are simple yet elegant. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sauce: Balsamic vinegar, honey, oil (like avocado or olive), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard
- Tomato Mozzarella Mix: Grape tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls), and finely chopped fresh basil
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts—pounded to an even thickness for perfect cooking! (Don’t skip this step; it really makes a difference!)
By using fresh ingredients, you're not just feeding your stomach—you’re nourishing your soul. Check out FreshDirect for quality produce if you're looking for convenience and freshness delivered right to your door.
Tips for Tender Chicken
Getting your chicken just right is crucial, and it can be the difference between a good dish and a great dish. Here are some tips:
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Pounding the Chicken: Thinner chicken cooks more evenly and stays juicy. Place your chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound it with a mallet or rolling pin. It's a therapeutic process, and you’ll appreciate the results!
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Season Generously: Seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking allows the flavors to deepen and penetrate the meat. Don’t be shy—give it a good, even coating!
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High Heat for Searing: When you heat the oil in the pan until it shimmers, that’s the right moment to add your chicken. It will help achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust we all adore.
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not just a meal; it's a good excuse to gather around the table with friends or family, enjoying delicious food and great conversation. Serve it alongside a refreshing salad or crusty bread, and you'll have everyone raving about your culinary skills.
As you prepare this dish, think about your favorite sides! The beauty of this meal is its flexibility. Consider roasted vegetables or a light grain like quinoa to accompany your delightful chicken. It's an all-in-one dish that promises satisfaction and flavor in every bite!
Ready for the Oven?
Once you’ve assembled these flavorful ingredients, you'll want to get them onto the oven! Preheat to 400°F, and let that heat work its magic. It’s like a cozy hug for your chicken and veggies as they transform into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Stay tuned for the cooking process in the next section, where all these flavors will come together to create your new favorite meal. Remember, cooking should be fun, and I promise this recipe will bring joy to your kitchen.
Happy cooking, and let’s make this One Pan Balsamic Chicken together!
Introduction to One Pan Balsamic Chicken
When you’re balancing a career and various responsibilities, finding time to prepare delicious meals can be challenging. That’s where One Pan Balsamic Chicken comes to the rescue! This delightful dish not only brings flavors to your dinner table but also simplifies your cooking experience by requiring just one pan. Imagine minimal clean-up after a long day; sounds perfect, right?
Why One Pan Meals are Perfect for Young Professionals
One pan meals are an absolute game-changer for young professionals. They offer the perfect combination of convenience and flavor, allowing you to focus more on your work, social life, or even just relaxing. With busy schedules, whipping up delicious dinners can often feel daunting. However, when everything cooks together—like the chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella in this recipe—it not only infuses a rich flavor but also saves time and effort.
Moreover, the simplicity of this One Pan Balsamic Chicken means you can impress friends or family without breaking a sweat. Just gather your ingredients, follow a few easy steps, and you have a wholesome meal ready to serve. For those interested in expanding their culinary knowledge, resources like The Kitchn or Serious Eats offer great tips on perfecting one pan meals. Cooking doesn't need to feel like a chore—let this recipe inspire your next delicious dinner!
Ingredients for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Essential Ingredients for the Sauce
Creating the sauce for your One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a breeze with a few key ingredients. You’ll need:
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy depth.
- 2 Tbsp. honey: For a touch of natural sweetness.
- 2 Tbsp. oil: Choose between avocado or olive oil for a healthier option.
- 2 garlic cloves: Minced for aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning: Bring that Mediterranean flair to the dish.
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard: Enhances the complexity of the sauce.
These ingredients meld beautifully, providing a delicious glaze that complements the chicken perfectly!
Chicken, Tomatoes, and Mozzarella
Next up, let’s talk about the heart of the dish. You’ll need:
- 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- 8 oz. grape tomatoes: Halved for fresh juiciness.
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls: Ciliegine or pearls offer delightful creaminess.
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil: Adds a pop of flavor and freshness.
This combination not only looks appealing but also balances beautifully in taste. You’ll end up with a delightful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight but special enough for a weekend dinner with friends!
Preparing One Pan Balsamic Chicken
There's nothing quite like the ease of a one pan dinner, especially when it boasts the delightful flavors of balsamic vinegar, fresh mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes. This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is not only simple but also perfect for a weeknight family dinner. Let's walk through the steps to ensure your meal is a hit!
Whisk the Sauce Ingredients Together
Start by gathering your sauce ingredients: balsamic vinegar, honey, oil (like avocado or olive), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. This blend creates a sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the chicken. In a medium bowl, whisk these ingredients until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, but remember—you can always adjust later. Set this aside; the flavors will deepen as they mingle while you prepare the other components.
Prepare the Tomato Mozzarella Mix
Now that your sauce is ready, it’s time to celebrate fresh produce! In a separate bowl, toss together the halved grape tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine), and finely chopped basil. This colorful medley not only offers vibrancy to your dish but also a burst of flavor. Just like with the sauce, season this mix with salt and pepper to enhance their natural taste. For more tips on using fresh herbs, you might find this expert guide on basil useful.
Preheat and Sear the Chicken
Next, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. While that heats up, take your pounded chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of your chosen oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's shimmering, add the chicken, cooking for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they’re lightly golden brown. This step is crucial for locking in the juices, ensuring your chicken stays juicy and flavorful while baking. Don’t forget to use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delectable brown bits from the pan—they pack a punch in flavor!
Combine Everything in the Skillet
With the chicken seared, it's time to combine the magic. Pour your balsamic sauce over the chicken in the skillet. You should hear a satisfying sizzle as it starts to simmer. Once that’s done, layer the tomato mozzarella mixture over your chicken. The juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella will meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Bake to Perfection
Finally, slide your skillet into the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for approximately 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This is where the magic happens—the chicken absorbs all those vibrant flavors from the sauce and toppings. Once done, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving; this step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is as moist and delicious as possible.
With simple, quality ingredients and minimal cleanup, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Variations on One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Add Seasonal Vegetables
One of the best things about One Pan Balsamic Chicken is its versatility! Enhance the dish by incorporating seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. Simply toss them in along with the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking. Not only do they add color and flavor, but they also boost the nutritional value—check out the benefits of these veggies here.
Switch It Up with Different Cheese
Want to change the flavor profile? Consider swapping out mozzarella for crumbled feta or sharp cheddar. Each cheese brings a unique touch to your One Pan Balsamic Chicken, making it feel like a whole new meal! Don't hesitate to experiment; mix and match until you find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
Cooking Tips and Notes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Make Sure to Pound the Chicken
Pounding the chicken breast to an even thickness is a crucial step in preparing your One Pan Balsamic Chicken. It not only ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly but also helps tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. To do this, place the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound with a mallet or rolling pin until even. Trust me, this makes a difference!
Using Alternative Oils for Health Benefits
While the recipe suggests using avocado or olive oil, you can explore other healthier oil options if you prefer. Oils like grapeseed or almond oil can also provide beneficial nutrients without compromising flavor. Each oil has a different smoke point, so be sure to choose one that suits your cooking style. For detailed nutritional benefits, check out Healthline. Experiment and discover what works best for your palate!
A Flavorful Twist on Dinner
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing meal that doesn’t require hours of prep and clean-up, you’re in the right place. The One Pan Balsamic Chicken dish is perfect for those bustling weeknights when you want something satisfying but quick to whip up.
What Makes This Recipe Shine
You might be wondering, what sets this recipe apart from your typical chicken dish? It's all about the balance of flavors. The balsamic vinegar provides a tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken. When you combine it with honey and Dijon mustard, you create a glaze that transforms each bite into a gourmet experience. And the best part? You don't need any fancy equipment or complicated cooking techniques!
Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the detailed instructions to make sure you nail every step.
Prep Like a Pro
Before you kick off cooking, it helps to have everything ready to go. Here's a quick checklist to streamline your experience:
- Gather your ingredients: Make sure you have everything listed in the recipe handy. This minimizes the chances of running out mid-cooking.
- Pound your chicken: Even thickness is not just for aesthetics; it ensures that you cook your chicken evenly. If you haven’t done this before, simply place the chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it until even.
This process not only enhances the flavor but also helps the chicken retain moisture, making it more tender.
Cooking Steps Demystified
Once prepped, you’re essentially on your way to a delightful dinner that can be accomplished in under an hour! Follow these steps closely:
- Start by whisking your sauce ingredients until well combined. This aromatic mixture is going to infuse the chicken with tons of flavors.
- Don't forget to season your plastic-wrap-pounded chicken generously with kosher salt and black pepper; this is where much of your flavor comes from!
- After searing the chicken, pour that luscious balsamic sauce over it and let it simmer for a bit. Scraping those brown bits from the pan adds a layer of depth to your dish that will impress even the pickiest of eaters.
And remember, layering in those fresh tomatoes and mozzarella is not just for show! The tomatoes will roast perfectly, lending a vibrant color and natural sweetness that completes the dish beautifully.
Nutritional Benefits of One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Did you know that this dish also has great nutritional benefits? Each serving packs a punch with:
- High protein content from the chicken (about 40.3 grams per serving),
- Relatively low calories (around 380), making it perfect for those mindful of their diet, and
- A good mix of healthy fats, especially if you're using high-quality oils like avocado oil.
Additionally, fresh basil not only adds flavor but also brings a wealth of antioxidants. So you're enjoying a meal that's as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!
Wrapping It Up
In just about 45 minutes, you’ve transformed simple ingredients into an impressive meal with minimal hassle. The One Pan Balsamic Chicken offers a lovely balance of flavors that makes it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.
Why not give it a try tonight? Pair it with a healthy side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious balsamic sauce. You’ve got your culinary adventure locked in with this dish. Happy cooking!
For more easy dinner ideas, consider checking out sites like Eating Well or Minimalist Baker for inspiration! Now, what will you cook next?
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Equipment
- large oven-safe skillet
Ingredients
Sauce
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp. honey
- 2 Tbsp. oil such as avocado or olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
Tomato Mozzarella
- 8 oz. grape tomatoes halved
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls ciliegine or pearls
- 2 Tbsp. fresh basil finely chopped
Chicken
- 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
- 2 Tbsp. avocado oil or other high-heat oil
- Kosher salt
- fresh black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, toss together the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Season the chicken all over with salt and pepper, to taste. When the pan is hot and oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side or until lightly golden brown. Add the balsamic sauce mixture. It should quickly come to a simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Immediately remove the pan from the heat and add the tomato mozzarella mixture over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked through. Internal temperature should register at 165F. Remove from the oven and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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