One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil
Introducing the ultimate one-pan wonder: Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil! This mouthwatering dish combines the bold flavors of balsamic vinegar, the juicy goodness of chicken, and the vibrant freshness of tomatoes and basil – all cooked together in a single pan for an easy, satisfying meal.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners. The blend of tender chicken, sweet-tart tomatoes, and aromatic basil creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and restaurant-worthy. Plus, with just one pan to clean up, you’ll save time and energy without sacrificing taste.
The textures in this dish are simply divine – the chicken is moist and succulent, the tomatoes burst with juicy goodness, and the basil adds a refreshing, herbal note. It’s a complete meal that’s easy to prepare but impressive enough to serve to guests.
🍽️ What You Need to Prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil ❓
• 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
The beauty of this One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and tangy balsamic vinegar creates the Italian-inspired flavor profile that has made one-pan recipes perennially popular.
👨🍳 How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, combine the cubed chicken, halved tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken and tomatoes are evenly coated.
• Step 3: Bake the chicken and tomato mixture in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are softened.
• Step 4: Remove the pan from the oven and stir in the chopped fresh basil. Serve the One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil immediately, while hot.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 35-40 minutes
Compared to traditional Italian-style chicken dishes which can take up to an hour to prepare, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil saves you 20-25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 504mg
These One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil provide approximately 54% of your daily protein requirements and 12% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Swap the cherry tomatoes for a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Omit the feta cheese and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply skip the cheese altogether.
• Added protein: Serve the dish over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to boost the protein and fiber content.
• Boost vegetables: Add extra roasted vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or asparagus to increase the nutrient density.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 15% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a crusty loaf of bread or garlic bread for sopping up the delicious balsamic juices.
• Complement the dish with a light, crisp white wine or a bold red for a complete meal.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Skipping the balsamic vinegar: The balsamic vinegar is the key to the signature flavor profile, so don’t be tempted to omit it.
• Cooking the basil too long: Add the fresh basil at the end to preserve its vibrant color and delicate flavor.
• Forgetting to adjust oven temperature: It’s important to bake the dish at the recommended 400°F (200°C) to ensure the chicken cooks through and the tomatoes soften properly.
• Not seasoning with salt and pepper: Properly seasoning the chicken and vegetables is essential for bringing out the best flavors.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the dish up to the baking step, then transfer to a freezer-safe baking dish, cover, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Freezing baked: Allow the cooked dish to cool completely, then portion and wrap individual servings in foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil is an excellent make-ahead recipe. You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before popping it in the oven. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for other proteins like shrimp, pork tenderloin, or even tofu. The balsamic-tomato-basil flavor profile works well with a variety of proteins, so feel free to experiment to suit your preferences.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on any packaged ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
What if I don’t have fresh basil on hand?
If you’re out of fresh basil, you can substitute 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil instead. The flavor won’t be quite as vibrant, but it will still work well in the recipe.
Can I add additional vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can easily add in extra roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure everything cooks through.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight family dinner or a show-stopping meal for guests, they’re sure to impress with their mouthwatering blend of juicy chicken, sweet roasted tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this one-pan wonder demonstrates that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So why not treat your loved ones to this delicious and nutritious dish tonight? Get ready to fall in love with the irresistible flavors of One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes and Basil!
