This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a total lifesaver! Juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a tasty balsamic glaze all cooked together in one pan—clean up made easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, as they cook quickly and are very tender. If you prefer, thighs can work well too; just adjust the cooking time as they might need a few extra minutes.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the dish its signature flavor. If you’re out, red wine vinegar can be a good replacement—just add a pinch of sugar to mimic the sweetness of balsamic. You can also use apple cider vinegar in a pinch!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using fresh cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and pop! If you can’t find them, chopped regular tomatoes can do the job, but expect a bit more liquid. Sun-dried tomatoes can offer a different flavor twist if you’re feeling adventurous!
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, but shredded mozzarella is easier to use and still delicious. For a twist, try goat cheese or feta for a tangy flavor if you don’t have mozzarella on hand.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Sear My Chicken?
Searing the chicken is a key step that enhances flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet! Heat the olive oil until it shimmers before adding the chicken.
- Don’t crowd the pan. If needed, work in batches to ensure even browning.
- Once added, resist the urge to move the chicken too much. Let it sit to get that golden crust.
- Once browned, make sure to finish cooking in the oven so the chicken stays juicy.
Following these tips will make your chicken flavorful and perfectly cooked! Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or whole as preferred
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or fresh mozzarella slices
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes to cook in the oven. Overall, you can expect around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for the chicken when it’s time to bake!
2. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Don’t be shy—this is where you add a ton of flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet (a cast iron skillet works great!), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and let them sear for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and sear for another 4-5 minutes. They should be nicely browned but not cooked through yet.
4. Prepare the Flavorful Base:
Take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This will bring the flavors to life!
5. Create the Balsamic Sauce:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth, stirring while scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits add extra flavor to your dish!
6. Add the Tomatoes:
Now, toss the cherry tomatoes into the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes. This helps to slightly soften them while allowing those delicious flavors to mingle!
7. Nestle the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, making sure they’re nestled among the tomatoes. Spoon some balsamic sauce over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.
8. Add Cheese:
Top each chicken breast with shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese. Yum! This will melt deliciously while the chicken cooks.
9. Bake:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve it warm with a drizzle of the balsamic tomato sauce over the top for an irresistible meal!
This easy one-pan dish showcases a wonderful balance of flavors with a hint of sweetness from the balsamic and the freshness of tomatoes and basil. Enjoy your delightful dinner!
FAQ: Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the quick method of placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water. Make sure to adjust cooking time if the chicken is still slightly frozen.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want to make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the mozzarella cheese. You can add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or top with toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch instead!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, and reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop. The flavors will meld even more, making it taste amazing!
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This balsamic chicken pairs well with many sides! Serve it over rice, pasta, or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad or roasted vegetables on the side.
