Effortless One Pan Balsamic Chicken Delight 🍗🍇✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for an easy chicken dinner that combines rich flavors with minimal cleanup, then this balsamic chicken recipe is perfect! This one pan chicken dish offers a savory, tangy, and sweet combination that will satisfy your taste buds while saving you time. Whether you’re a busy parent or someone who loves quick and flavorful meals, this effortless balsamic chicken is a must-try in your dinner lineup.
2. Ingredients for Balsamic Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
For a complete flavorful experience, consider adding some roasted vegetables or a side of **rice** or **quinoa**. You can also check our creamy meat and potato skillet for more quick meal ideas.
3. How to Make the Perfect Balsamic Chicken
Step by Step Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. This creates a flavorful base for your dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Balsamic Glaze
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken in the Balsamic Glaze
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the glaze over the top. Cover and let simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The sauce will become sticky, tangy, and full of flavor.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Balsamic Chicken
Store any remaining balsamic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. To keep the chicken juicy, consider adding a splash of broth or water when reheating. For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 1 month.
5. Serving Suggestions for Balsamic Chicken
This delicious one pan chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. For a light and fresh touch, serve with a side salad topped with lemon vinaigrette. You might also enjoy our easy chicken tzatziki rice bake for another quick, flavorful dish.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great and become incredibly tender. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is this balsamic chicken recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Make a larger batch, store in containers, and enjoy as lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I substitute honey with maple syrup?
Yes, maple syrup is a perfect natural sweetener alternative that complements the balsamic flavors.
What are some healthy side dishes to serve with balsamic chicken?
Grilled vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh mixed salad make excellent healthy accompaniments.
7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup for your skillet dishes.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Simplifies chopping garlic and herbs.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Perfect for preparing fresh beverages to complement your meal.
Each of these tools enhances your cooking experience, making prep and cleanup effortless while elevating your dishes.
8. Conclusion
With this balsamic chicken recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful, juicy, and easy-to-make one pan chicken dish that tastes as sophisticated as it looks. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this effortless balsamic chicken delight is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Remember, simplicity is key to delicious home-cooked meals, so give this recipe a try today!
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Effortless One Pan Balsamic Chicken Delight
A quick and flavorful one pan balsamic chicken with a tangy glaze, served alongside fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic.
- Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer until the sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness or acidity by varying honey and balsamic vinegar quantities.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Sauté and simmer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, High-Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg