This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a yummy dish that’s super simple to make. Juicy chicken meets tasty balsamic vinegar, sweet honey, and fresh veggies—all in one pan!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish due to their tenderness. If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can use thighs or even a mix of both for more flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient provides a tangy sweetness. If you run out, you might try red wine vinegar mixed with a little sugar. The taste won’t be identical, but it will still add a nice zing.
Honey: Honey helps balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. You can substitute maple syrup or agave syrup for a different twist, keeping the flavors bright.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, you can use diced regular tomatoes or even some sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep it juicy:
- Be sure not to overcook the chicken. Cooking it just until it’s no longer pink ensures it stays moist.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices inside.
- Cooking with the lid on during the final steps helps retain moisture and makes the chicken tender.
Using these techniques will elevate your dish and keep the chicken deliciously juicy! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 20 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have a tasty meal ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor. This step is crucial for adding taste to the chicken.
2. Searing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and mostly cooked through. Once done, remove them from the pan and keep them aside.
3. Cooking the Garlic:
In the same pan, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Adding the Vegetables:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook these for about 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.
5. Creating the Balsamic Sauce:
Now, stir in the balsamic vinegar, honey, and thyme. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts thickening a bit.
6. Combining Chicken and Sauce:
Return the chicken to the pan, placing it back in the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken for extra flavor. Lower the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for another 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and coated in the delightful sauce.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, garnish your dish with fresh basil or parsley if you’d like. Serve it warm, alongside rice, pasta, or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy every bite of your one-pan meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, easy one pan balsamic chicken meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar mixed with a teaspoon of sugar for some sweetness. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still taste great!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring the chicken is heated through without drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the pan along with the tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for different veggies!
