If you are looking for a dinner that is both effortlessly elegant and bursting with flavor, the One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus Recipe is a true gem you need to try. This dish comes together quickly using just one pan, making it a weeknight hero that delivers juicy, tender chicken breasts glazed in a tangy balsamic reduction, complemented perfectly by sweet cherry tomatoes and crisp asparagus. It’s a harmonious mix of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for seconds without any complicated steps or cleanup stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet packed with fresh, vibrant flavors, these ingredients work together to create a colorful and hearty meal. Each component is essential not only for taste but also for the beautiful presentation and satisfying texture that make this dish so special.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, perfect for quick cooking and absorbing all those wonderful flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural taste of the chicken and vegetables.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to balance the sweetness of balsamic and honey.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a golden sear that locks in juices and adds richness.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with sweetness and color, they soften nicely in the pan.
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces: Provides a fresh, crisp contrast and vibrant green hue.
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar: The tangy, slightly sweet base of the sauce that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the acidity of the vinegar with natural sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the sauce and vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish): For a fragrant, herbaceous finish that brightens the whole dish.
How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Chicken
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, season both sides of your chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning step is crucial as it creates the foundation of flavor for the entire dish.
Step 2: Get a Golden Sear
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts carefully and sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This caramelization locks in juices and adds an irresistible depth to the chicken.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the chicken temporarily and set aside. In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and asparagus. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes to soften the veggies slightly and absorb all those lovely browned bits left from the chicken. This step adds a fantastic layer of natural sweetness and freshness.
Step 4: Whisk and Add the Balsamic Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk them together until smooth and well blended. Pour this vibrant mixture over the vegetables in the skillet, stirring gently to coat everything evenly. The sauce will begin to thicken and infuse the veggies with tangy sweetness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfect Doneness
Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet among the vegetables. Transfer the entire pan to your preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This gentle oven finish ensures juicy tender meat and beautifully roasted vegetables.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This resting step helps retain the juices, making each bite supremely tender. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top for a bright, herbal aroma and extra visual appeal.
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a perfect garnish to add a pop of color and an herbal freshness that complements the balsamic glaze beautifully. If you want a touch of richness, a small spoonful of ricotta or a shaving of Parmesan can also elevate the dish delightfully.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderful on its own but pairs nicely with light, simple sides. Consider serving alongside fluffy quinoa, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a warm crusty bread to soak up that luscious balsamic sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a striking presentation, arrange the chicken breasts atop a bed of mixed greens or wild rice and drizzle extra balsamic reduction over the plate’s edge. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a dash of chili flakes can add texture and a subtle kick for an impressive dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken and vegetables together helps the flavors mingle further, making leftovers just as tasty.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Place cooled servings in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave on medium power until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or extra balsamic vinegar can help revive the sauce’s glossy finish and keep the chicken moist during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time, so adjust your baking step accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to reach 165°F for safe consumption.
What type of balsamic vinegar is best for this recipe?
Choose a good quality balsamic vinegar that strikes a balance between tang and sweetness. A traditional aged balsamic will give a more complex flavor, but a standard bottle from the grocery store works well too.
Can I substitute other vegetables for the asparagus and cherry tomatoes?
Definitely! Vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or zucchini can be great alternatives. Just be mindful of their cooking times so they cook evenly with the chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep! The balanced protein and veggies reheat beautifully and provide a wholesome, ready-to-go meal for the busy week ahead.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
To transform this dish, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and follow the rest of the steps. The balsamic glaze and vegetables will still shine, making it a delicious plant-based option.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus Recipe is truly a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together with ease and elegance. It’s an ideal recipe for anyone craving a home-cooked meal that feels special yet requires minimal effort. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite on your dinner rotation.
Print
One Pan Balsamic Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple and flavorful one-pan balsamic chicken recipe featuring juicy seared chicken breasts baked with vibrant cherry tomatoes and tender asparagus, all coated in a tangy balsamic glaze with a hint of honey. Perfect for a healthy and easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and Sauce:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken and vegetables.
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Heat Skillet: Place a large oven-safe skillet on the stovetop and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Remove Chicken: Take the seared chicken breasts out of the skillet and set them aside temporarily.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes and asparagus pieces, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they just start to soften.
- Prepare Balsamic Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic to create a flavorful glaze.
- Add Sauce: Pour the balsamic mixture over the sautéed vegetables in the skillet and stir gently to combine and coat everything evenly.
- Return Chicken to Skillet: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet among the vegetables and sauce.
- Bake: Transfer the oven-safe skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
- Rest: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to lock in juices.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the dish if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet you use is oven-safe to avoid transferring the chicken and vegetables to another dish.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the balsamic mixture separately until reduced before adding to vegetables.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted with thighs for a more tender option.
- Fresh basil garnish is optional but adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
- Internal temperature of chicken should always reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
