This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a tasty and simple meal! Juicy chicken thighs cook perfectly with colorful veggies, all bathed in a sweet balsamic glaze.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat or want more flavor, use chicken thighs instead. They’ll stay juicy and tender!
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the chicken a sweet and tangy taste. If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be a good substitute. Just add a little honey to mimic the sweetness.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are sweet and burst nicely while cooking. If they’re out of season, you can use grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes. Just drain them well before using.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth to the dish. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used. One teaspoon of powder should be enough.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds freshness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can sprinkle in some dried basil, but I always recommend using fresh when possible for the best flavor!
How Can I Cook Juicy Chicken Breasts?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky since they can dry out if overcooked. Here are my tips to keep them juicy:
- Start with chicken at room temperature. Take them out of the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to keep the heat consistent.
- Use a meat thermometer. The chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (75°C).
- Let chicken rest. After cooking, let it sit for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute!
By following these tips, your chicken will come out delicious and juicy every time!
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or whole
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese or 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then about 20 minutes cooking everything in one skillet. A quick and easy meal perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will add flavor and help keep them nice and juicy.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Once they’re done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned—this adds a fabulous flavor!
4. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. They’ll add a lovely sweetness to the dish.
5. Create the Balsamic Sauce:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth, then stir in the dried oregano or Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them among the tomatoes and sauce. This allows the chicken to soak up all the delicious flavors!
7. Add the Cheese:
Top each chicken breast with slices of mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Spoon the balsamic tomato sauce over the chicken and enjoy!
This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor! Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special. Enjoy your flavorful balsamic chicken with juicy roasted tomatoes and melted mozzarella, all made in one pan!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
While fresh chicken breasts are best, you can use frozen ones, but they must be completely thawed first. For quick thawing, submerge them in cold water in a sealed plastic bag for about 1-2 hours. Ensure to pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season and prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Cook the chicken and tomatoes until just done, then let it cool before storing in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet over medium heat and melt the cheese on top.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
No worries! If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar are excellent substitutes. To mimic the sweetness, you can add 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar to balance the acidity.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture. Enjoy your meal again without compromising on taste!
