This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a lifesaver! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked with colorful veggies and drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
I love how everything cooks together in one pan—fewer dishes to wash! Plus, the smell of balsamic as it bubbles away is just heavenly. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and a burst of flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work well too. Just drain them before using.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for that tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be nice substitutes, though they will alter the taste a bit.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love the creaminess of fresh mozzarella. If you’re in a rush or can’t find it, shredded mozzarella works just fine.
Fresh Basil: Adds a fresh finish. If you don’t have any, dried basil can be used, but add it earlier in cooking to develop its flavor.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here are some tips. Start by browning the chicken on medium-high heat; this gives it a nice color. Then, when you cover the skillet, it helps keep the moisture in as it cooks through.
- Always check chicken with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking; this helps keep it juicy!
And remember, turning the heat down to medium when simmering the sauce ensures the chicken cooks evenly without getting dry.
How to Make Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese (or mozzarella pearls)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan balsamic chicken dinner will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting the ingredients ready and about 20 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. It’s an easy, quick meal, perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor!
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Brown them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden but not completely cooked through. Take the chicken out of the pan and set it aside.
3. Cook the Veggies:
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the tomatoes start to soften. This step builds flavor!
4. Make the Balsamic Sauce:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Return the Chicken:
Nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet, making sure they’re surrounded by the tomatoes and sauce. Cover the pan and let everything cook for another 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (165°F or 75°C).
6. Melt the Cheese:
Remove the cover and place a slice of fresh mozzarella on each chicken breast. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your balsamic chicken dinner with fresh basil leaves. Spoon some of that delicious balsamic tomato sauce over the chicken and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
This one pan dish not only looks great but tastes fantastic too, with the tangy balsamic glaze, juicy tomatoes, and melty mozzarella. It’s sure to impress anyone who tries it!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts! Just adjust the cooking time, as they will take longer to cook through. You’ll want to cook them for about 8-10 minutes on each side and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they become tender but still retain some crunch.
