One Pan Balsamic Chicken

This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is the perfect choice for a quick and delicious dinner. With its cheesy, tangy flavor profile, it’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition. Ideal for family meals or entertaining guests, this dish stands out with its high protein content and gluten-free ingredients, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just over 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• High in Protein: With 61g of protein per serving, it supports your muscle gain goals while keeping you satisfied.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh mozzarella creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in a single skillet, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe can be easily adapted by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping proteins based on availability.

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Tools and Preparation

To make One Pan Balsamic Chicken, gather the necessary tools and prepare your kitchen. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process and make your experience more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-safe skillet: This allows you to sear the chicken first and then transfer it directly to the oven for baking, simplifying the cooking process.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauces or marinades without making a mess.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping your ingredients quickly and safely.

Ingredients

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

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella
• 2 cups grape tomatoes (halved)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
• 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 to ensure it’s hot when you bake the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

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

Step 3: Make the Topping Mixture

In a separate bowl:
1. Tear the mozzarella into pieces with your hands.
2. Add in halved grape tomatoes and chopped basil.
3. Season with sea salt and black pepper.
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 into the skillet; let it heat up.
3. Season the chicken breasts with sea salt and black pepper before adding them to the skillet in a single layer.
4. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Add Marinade & Bake

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

Step 6: Top & Finish Cooking

1. Remove from heat once simmering is achieved.
2. Cover the chicken with your mozzarella mixture evenly.
3. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 18-23 minutes or until fully cooked through.

Step 7: Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow your dish to sit for about 3-5 minutes before serving so that flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy!

How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Serving One Pan Balsamic Chicken can be as delightful as making it. This dish is versatile, and you can pair it with various sides or garnishes to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• A light arugula or spinach salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the chicken.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious balsamic sauce.

Topped with Extra Basil

• Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for an aromatic boost and color contrast.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pairing with roasted seasonal vegetables enhances both flavor and nutrition.

How to Perfect One Pan Balsamic Chicken

To achieve the best results with One Pan Balsamic Chicken, follow these helpful tips. They ensure your dish turns out flavorful and tender every time.

• Choose high-quality balsamic vinegar: This enhances the depth of flavor in your sauce.
• Pound chicken to even thickness: This helps the chicken cook evenly, preventing dryness.
• Let the chicken rest after cooking: Allowing it to sit for a few minutes retains moisture.
• Use fresh mozzarella: The creaminess of fresh mozzarella elevates this dish, making it extra indulgent.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to add more salt or pepper if desired.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Pairing your One Pan Balsamic Chicken with complementary side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well with chicken.

2. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus adds crunch and a pop of color, making your plate more appealing.

3. Cauliflower Rice
   A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors beautifully and remains light on the palate.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the tangy balsamic chicken.

5. Couscous Salad
   Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and veggies provides a refreshing complement to your main dish.

6. Zucchini Noodles
   For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil make an excellent base for the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when making One Pan Balsamic Chicken.

• Skipping the Chicken Preparation: Not pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to pound them so they cook uniformly.
• Overlooking Seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly with salt and pepper can result in bland flavors. Always season your meat generously before cooking for the best taste.
• Ignoring the Simmering Step: Skipping the simmering step after adding the balsamic mixture may prevent those rich flavors from developing. Allow it to simmer briefly to enhance the taste.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for juicier results.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold mozzarella or tomatoes directly from the fridge can affect cooking time and texture. Allow them to come to room temperature for optimal melting and flavor integration.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze within 2 hours of cooking for optimal freshness.
• Enjoy within 2-3 months for best taste.

Reheating One Pan Balsamic Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about One Pan Balsamic Chicken that might help you out.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like goat cheese or feta for different flavor profiles that complement the balsamic chicken.

How can I customize One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini in the pan alongside the chicken for more nutrition and color.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only easy to make but also stores well, making it perfect for meal prep.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is highly recommended.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful, nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!