Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but you can also use thighs if you prefer a juicier option. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly.

Cherry Tomatoes: These add a lovely sweetness. If they’re not in season, substitute with regular tomatoes, diced. Canned diced tomatoes could work in a pinch too!

Balsamic Vinegar: This is the star ingredient! If you don’t have balsamic, try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor. Just keep in mind the taste will be a bit different.

Honey/Brown Sugar: Both add sweetness to balance the tanginess. If you’re avoiding sugar, consider using a sugar substitute or simply omit it.

How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?

Cooking chicken to the right temperature can be tricky. It’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F (75°C). Here are a few tips:

• Start with medium-high heat to get a good sear, then reduce it to medium to cook through without drying out.
• Rest the chicken after cooking for a few minutes before serving; this helps retain its juices.
• If using thighs, you can cook them slightly longer as they’re more forgiving.

Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or Italian herbs
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you can have this delicious one-pan meal ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat them well to enhance the flavor.

2. Cook the Chicken:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, sliced red onion, red bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are starting to soften. This step will bring out their wonderful flavors!

4. Prepare the Balsamic Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, honey (or brown sugar), and Italian seasoning. This mixture will be the sauce that ties everything together.

5. Combine and Simmer:

Pour the balsamic mixture into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine everything and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

6. Finish Cooking the Chicken:

Return the chicken breasts to the pan. Spoon some of the sauce and vegetables over the chicken. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish your dish with fresh basil or parsley if you’d like. Serve this delicious One Pan Balsamic Chicken warm alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your flavorful One Pan Balsamic Chicken made effortlessly in a single skillet!

FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.

What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?

You can definitely customize the vegetables to your taste! If you don’t have cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, try zucchini, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just ensure that they cook for a similar amount of time so they soften without becoming mushy.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating can help retain moisture.

Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet until warmed through.