Are you looking for a meal that combines convenience and flavor? Look no further than this One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe. This dish is designed to be both simple and satisfying, featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection with a tangy balsamic glaze. With minimal cleanup required thanks to the one-pan method, you can enjoy a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up this delightful dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight meal or entertaining guests on the weekend, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easily customizable; feel free to add your favorite vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely adore this quick and delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- Balsamic Vinegar: Opt for high-quality balsamic vinegar for richer taste
- Honey: Use pure honey to balance the acidity of the vinegar
- Dried Oregano: This herb adds aromatic notes that complement the dish perfectly
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a large oven-safe skillet with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will enhance their natural flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear each chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Bake
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Transfer it into your preheated oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal flavor.
- Storing: After cooking, allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about five minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for two to three minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
FAQs for One Pan Balsamic Chicken:
What ingredients do I need for One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
To prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken, you will need chicken breasts or thighs, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, honey, and a selection of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor. Ensure you have salt and pepper on hand for seasoning. This simple yet flavorful combination makes for a delicious meal that comes together quickly. The key is to use fresh ingredients to maximize taste. You can also adjust the veggies based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
How long does it take to cook One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Cooking One Pan Balsamic Chicken typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. This includes preparation time and cooking time. Most of the time is spent roasting in the oven, which allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the balsamic marinade and vegetables. If you’re short on time during busy weekdays, this recipe is perfect because it requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. You can easily whip it up for dinner after a long day.
Can I prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can definitely prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken in advance! Marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture a few hours before cooking or even overnight for extra flavor infusion. When you’re ready to cook, simply place everything in your baking dish and roast it. Leftovers can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.
What sides pair well with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
One Pan Balsamic Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides that complement its flavors well. Consider serving it alongside fluffy rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious balsamic sauce. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli would also work nicely as they balance out the sweetness of the dish and add color to your plate.
Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?
Absolutely! One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a nutritious meal option that features lean protein from chicken and plenty of vitamins from assorted vegetables. The use of balsamic vinegar adds rich flavor without excess calories or fat compared to heavier sauces or marinades. Additionally, if you’re watching your sugar intake, you can adjust the amount of honey used or omit it altogether without losing significant flavor, making this dish adaptable to various dietary needs.
Can I use different proteins for One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Certainly! While chicken is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with other proteins like turkey breasts or even fish fillets such as salmon or tilapia. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the protein chosen; fish will require less time compared to chicken. Always ensure that any alternative protein is cooked thoroughly and reaches safe internal temperatures before serving.
Conclusion for One Pan Balsamic Chicken:
In conclusion, One Pan Balsamic Chicken offers a delightful blend of flavors while being quick and easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients including chicken, balsamic vinegar, and fresh vegetables, this recipe stands out as a versatile option for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions. The ability to customize sides enhances its appeal further by allowing you to create balanced meals tailored to your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish promises satisfaction without overwhelming kitchen demands making every bite worth savoring!
PrintOne Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, delivering a burst of flavor with minimal effort. This easy-to-make dish features succulent chicken breasts glazed in a tangy balsamic sauce, all cooked in a single pan for effortless cleanup. In just 30 minutes, you can savor this delicious meal that’s not only satisfying but also customizable—feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition and color. Whether you’re serving it to family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
– 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
– Olive oil for searing
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a large oven-safe skillet with nonstick spray.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, soy sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Serve warm, drizzled with additional sauce.
Notes
For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the balsamic mixture. Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey or fish if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g