One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is one of those recipes that effortlessly brings dinner to the table without overwhelming you with pots and pans. I stumbled upon this dish during a particularly busy week and was immediately drawn in by its simplicity. The combination of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering glaze that makes even a mundane chicken breast shine.
This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a cozy family dinner. Plus, there’s something inherently satisfying about a one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup time while maximizing flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What sets One-Pan Balsamic Chicken apart is its incredible ease and versatility. It comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for those hectic weeknights when you need a nutritious meal that looks and tastes gourmet. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, it’s also budget-friendly and can easily be adapted to suit your family’s tastes.
“This dish is my go-to for busy weeknights! It’s quick to make, and the flavor is just spectacular. My kids love it!”
Step-by-Step Overview
Preparing One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is a breeze. You’ll start by whisking together a flavorful balsamic mixture. Then, simply coat the chicken breasts with this mixture and add some vibrant cherry tomatoes. Cook everything together in a single pan, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. Near the end, toss in some fresh spinach for a nutrient boost. It all comes together in no time!
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup spinach
Feel free to modify according to your pantry. If you’re out of spinach, kale makes a great substitute, and you can use any type of vinegar if you’re in a pinch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Heat a large pan over medium heat. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and pour the balsamic mixture over them, coating well.
- Add the cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In the last few minutes of cooking, add the spinach to the pan and stir until just wilted.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one-pan creation!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To serve your One-Pan Balsamic Chicken, consider plating the chicken alongside the wilted spinach and cherry tomatoes for a vibrant presentation. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a crunchy green salad. For a delightful twist, drizzle your plate with a bit more balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing leftovers is simple. Allow the chicken to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for a quick option. Just ensure the chicken is heated to at least 165°F for safety.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If you need to, cook the chicken in batches.
- Using fresh, high-quality balsamic vinegar can elevate the dish significantly.
- For more depth, consider marinating the chicken in the balsamic mixture for an hour or so before cooking.
Recipe Variations
Let your creativity shine! Try adding some sliced bell peppers or zucchini alongside the chicken and tomatoes for added veggies. If you’re looking for a kick, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can spice things up wonderfully. For a sweeter twist, consider mixing in some diced peaches or apricots when adding the spinach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare One-Pan Balsamic Chicken?
The total prep and cook time is about 30-40 minutes.
Are there any substitutions I can make?
Absolutely! You can use different cuts of chicken, such as thighs, or swap in your choice of greens like kale or swiss chard.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes! While balsamic gives a rich flavor, red or white wine vinegar can also work although it will slightly change the taste profile.
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
A simple and delicious one-pan meal featuring chicken breasts coated in a flavorful balsamic glaze, cooked with cherry tomatoes and spinach.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup spinach
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Heat a large pan over medium heat. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and pour the balsamic mixture over them, coating well.
- Add cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In the last few minutes of cooking, add spinach to the pan and stir until just wilted.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one-pan creation!
Notes
Consider marinating the chicken in the balsamic mixture for an hour before cooking for more flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg