One Pan Balsamic Chicken
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the perfect recipe for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet easy to make. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich balsamic glaze, all cooked together in one pan for minimal cleanup. It’s a go-to meal that’s full of flavor, healthy, and perfect for feeding your family or impressing guests.
A Family Favorite: How One Pan Balsamic Chicken Became Our Weeknight Hero
It all started on a hectic Tuesday night when I needed to whip up something fast but satisfying. My husband was finishing up work, and the kids were doing their homework, so I wanted to make a meal that would bring us all together at the dinner table. I found a recipe for One Pan Balsamic Chicken and decided to give it a try. As soon as the rich aroma of balsamic vinegar and garlic filled the kitchen, everyone came running. The juicy chicken paired with the tangy glaze was an instant hit, and now it’s a staple in our weekly rotation. It’s amazing how something so simple can make everyone feel at home and happy.
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Why You’ll Love One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pan means less mess, making it even easier to enjoy this meal.
- Flavorful and Healthy: The balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with tender chicken, making it both tasty and nutritious.
- Versatile: This dish can be served with a variety of sides, from rice to vegetables, or even on a salad.
- Family-Approved: The whole family will love the rich flavors and tender chicken, making it a meal that pleases everyone.
Ingredients Notes For One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result, but chicken breasts work just as well.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Choose a good-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
- Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy balsamic vinegar.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with flavor and complement the balsamic glaze perfectly.
- Fresh Herbs: Basil or rosemary work wonderfully to add freshness to the dish.
Recipe Steps for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, and dried herbs of your choice.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Balsamic Glaze: In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Cook the Chicken and Tomatoes: Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the balsamic glaze over the top. Add cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Cover and cook for another 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot, pairing with your favorite side dishes.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Freeze: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Add Veggies: Include additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for more variety.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest for a brighter flavor profile.
One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach optional, for added greens
- Fresh basil chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them on both sides with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and dried thyme.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Balsamic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, and honey to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Add Spinach (Optional): If using spinach, add it to the skillet during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, stirring it into the sauce until wilted.
- Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired. Serve the balsamic chicken hot, with the sauce and tomatoes spooned over the top.