Your Go-To One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe!
Hey there! Are you looking for a simple yet delicious dish to spice up your weeknight dinners? I get you! We all have those busy evenings where we want to whip up something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter my one-pan balsamic chicken! This recipe is not just easy to make, but it’s also incredibly healthy and packs a punch of flavors. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First off, cooking this dish in one pan means less time on cleanup—bonus! Plus, the combination of balsamic vinegar, juicy chicken, and fresh veggies creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone at the table smiling. Not to mention, it’s packed with protein and vitamins thanks to the chicken, tomatoes, and mushrooms. If you’re looking to impress without the stress, this is the recipe for you!
Nutritional Benefits
Let’s chat about the goodness that’s packed into this dish. Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is great for muscle building and keeping you feeling full longer. Balsamic vinegar isn’t just for flavor; it’s also lower in calories compared to creamy sauces and can help regulate blood sugar levels. The cherry tomatoes are not only sweet and delicious but also rich in antioxidants, which are wonderful for your health. And mushrooms? They provide essential nutrients like Vitamin D and B vitamins!
Adaptable Variations
- Veggie Lovers: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
- Different Proteins: Shrimp or tofu would work beautifully in place of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little kick, add crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Herbaceous Twist: Swap out dried oregano for fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added freshness.
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Serves 3–4 people
Standard portions → 3 servings
Slightly smaller portions → up to 4 servings
Cooking Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to finish the dish in the oven—this provides a lovely finish!
- Now grab a large skillet and heat your olive oil over medium heat. Really get that oil flowing, it’s what gives the chicken such a great sear!
- Take your chicken breasts and season them well with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on both sides. This is where you bring the flavor!
- Once the skillet is hot, add those seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 5-6 minutes per side until you notice that gorgeous golden brown color.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic. Let it sauté for one minute until it fills your kitchen with that amazing aroma!
- Pour in the balsamic vinegar and make sure to scrape any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—this is where the magic happens!
- Now, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cherry tomatoes. Gently stir everything together, letting those veggies get to know the balsamic sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet, letting it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This is when your chicken reaches that perfect internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a delicious caramelized finish, feel free to transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes if you’re up for it!
- Once it’s all cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Patience is key!
- Finally, garnish with some fresh parsley before digging in. Serve warm, and don’t forget that tasty balsamic sauce—dreamy!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you want a thicker sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the balsamic vinegar before pouring it in.
- Storing leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat gently!
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or any kind of green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier result.
- What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar? A mix of red wine vinegar and a bit of honey can be a tasty alternative!
- How can I add more flavor? Feel free to marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar ahead of time! Even 30 minutes makes a difference.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Cook it all ahead, cool it down, and store it in the fridge for a quick reheat later!
- Is it okay to freeze? Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat!
Join the Cooking Fun!
I hope you’re as excited to try this one-pan balsamic chicken as I am to share it with you! It’s such an easy dinner option that makes busy weeknights feel a bit special. I’d love to see how yours turns out! If you give it a shot, come find me on Pinterest and let’s share our kitchen adventures!
