This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a winner! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked with colorful veggies and coated in a tasty balsamic sauce. It’s simple and bursting with flavor!
Cooking everything in just one pan makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, the balsamic sauce brings a sweet and tangy touch that’ll have you going back for seconds—trust me!
I love how quick this meal comes together. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want delicious food without a lot of fuss. Just toss it all in, and let the oven do its magic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are great for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, use boneless thighs instead—they stay juicy and tender!
Olive Oil: This classic oil adds richness. If you don’t have it, avocado oil or vegetable oil works well too.
Balsamic Vinegar: It’s essential for that tangy flavor. If you need a substitution, red or white wine vinegar can provide a different but tasty twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and burst with juiciness. Grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes can also work in a pinch.
Fresh Mozzarella: Ideal for creaminess. If you’re in a hurry, shredded mozzarella or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can do the job.
How Do I Get Perfectly Searing on the Chicken?
Searing the chicken is key to locking in juices and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches—this ensures even searing.
- Let the chicken sear without moving it for a few minutes. Flip it once it’s nicely browned!
With these steps, your chicken will be perfectly seared and full of flavor!
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Saucy Goodness:
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Toppings:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious balsamic chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, pat your chicken breasts dry to ensure a good sear. Then, rub them all over with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning will bring great flavor to your chicken!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Next, heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This will create a nice crust and seal in those juicy flavors!
3. Add Garlic and Sauce:
Once the chicken is seared, take it out of the pan temporarily. Add the minced garlic to the hot skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell the wonderful aroma. Then, pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth, scraping the bottom to lift any delicious browned bits.
4. Combine and Bake:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Return the chicken to the skillet and scatter the cherry tomatoes around it. Then, place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
5. Melt the Cheese:
After 15 minutes, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Top each chicken breast with slices of fresh mozzarella, then put it back in the oven uncovered for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is nicely melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese has melted, take the skillet out of the oven and garnish your chicken with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, juicy balsamic chicken with sweet roasted tomatoes!
This dish is perfect as is, or pair it with rice or a salad for a complete meal. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add extra juiciness to the dish. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as substitutes. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover balsamic chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I Omit the Mozzarella Cheese?
Yes! If you prefer a dairy-free version or simply want to skip the cheese, you can leave it out. The dish will still be flavorful and delicious with the balsamic sauce and roasted tomatoes!
