Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Italy with this exquisite One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe. This dish is a symphony of flavors, combining the tangy zest of balsamic vinegar, the sweetness of honey, and the rustic charm of Italian herbs. It’s a recipe that not only promises a delightful taste experience but also offers the convenience of a single-pan preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner, this dish is designed to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp. honey
- 2 Tbsp. oil (preferably avocado or olive oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 8 oz. grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls)
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
- 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 2 Tbsp. avocado oil (or other high-heat oil)
- Kosher salt and fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, avocado or olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until well blended. Season with kosher salt and fresh black pepper according to taste. This marinade is the secret to the dish’s robust flavor profile, infusing the chicken with a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
- Toss the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: In a separate bowl, mix the halved grape tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls with the finely chopped basil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will add a fresh, creamy texture to the dish, complementing the rich flavors of the balsamic chicken.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the chicken to perfection.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the avocado oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken in the skillet in a single layer. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is crucial for locking in the juices and creating a flavorful crust.
- Add the Balsamic Marinade: Pour the prepared balsamic marinade over the seared chicken in the skillet. Allow it to simmer briefly, using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance the overall taste of the sauce.
- Combine with Tomato-Mozzarella Mixture: Remove the skillet from the heat and evenly distribute the tomato-mozzarella mixture over the chicken. The heat from the chicken and the pan will start to soften the mozzarella, integrating its creamy texture with the rest of the ingredients.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 18-23 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking melds the flavors together and ensures the chicken is succulent and tender.
- Rest and Serve: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the beauty of Italian cooking, where simplicity and quality ingredients lead to extraordinary results. The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and Italian herbs creates a marinade that is both complex and perfectly balanced, ensuring that each bite of chicken is a burst of flavor. The addition of fresh grape tomatoes and mozzarella adds a refreshing contrast to the dish, making it a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious, easy-to-make dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Its elegant simplicity and rich flavors are a tribute to the timeless appeal of Italian cuisine, making every meal a special occasion.
