Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes

With just a handful of ingredients, this Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes is a delightful dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar creates a rich, flavorful glaze that perfectly complements the juicy chicken and burstingly fresh cherry tomatoes. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a stunning presentation, making it suitable for family dinners or intimate gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this meal ready in about 35 minutes.
• Flavorful Glaze: The honey-balsamic mixture enhances the chicken’s natural flavors while adding a sweet and tangy twist.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs elevates the dish’s taste and nutritional value.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from casual family meals to elegant dinner parties.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pan means less mess and hassle after the meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking dish or oven-safe pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the chicken evenly and creating a flavorful base.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the glaze ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even coat on the chicken.

Ingredients

With nothing more than chicken, spices, some fresh cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs, this easy, everyday recipe will wow you!

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless (skinless chicken breasts (3-4 breasts depending on the size))
• 3/4 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Glaze

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/3 cup rice wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey

For Garnish

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• Chopped fresh herbs (about 1/3 cup (I used chives, parsley, & basil))

How to Make Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, whisk together kosher salt, lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium/high heat. Add olive oil to the skillet. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts into the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned.

Step 3: Add Vinegar and Glaze

Pour rice wine vinegar into the pan to deglaze it. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until most of the vinegar has cooked down. Turn off the heat once done. In another bowl, stir together balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and honey until well combined. Pour this mixture over your chicken, ensuring it is well coated.

Step 4: Bake with Tomatoes

Cover your skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15 minutes. After that time has passed, remove it from the oven carefully and add cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the pan. Cover again and return to bake for an additional 5 minutes or until tomatoes are heated through and start to burst.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from oven when done baking; sprinkle fresh herbs over everything before serving! Enjoy your delicious Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes!

How to Serve Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes

Serving Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes is simple and versatile, allowing you to delight your family and friends. Here are some creative ways to present this dish to enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the chicken over a bed of fresh mixed greens for a light, refreshing meal.
• Spinach and Arugula: Pair with spinach and arugula tossed in a lemon vinaigrette for added zest.

Accompanied by Grains

• Quinoa: This protein-packed grain complements the chicken beautifully while absorbing the honey-balsamic sauce.
• Couscous: Fluffy couscous serves as an excellent base to soak up the flavors of the dish.

With Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Slice up some crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce on your plate.
• Garlic Bread: For an extra kick, serve alongside garlic bread that adds warmth and flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Herb Garnish: Sprinkle additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for a vibrant pop of color and flavor.
• Chive Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of chive oil enhances both presentation and taste.

How to Perfect Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes

To ensure your Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning the chicken. The spices elevate the dish’s overall taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs; they add vibrant flavor that dried alternatives cannot match.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times to avoid overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference; less honey gives a tangier flavor.
• Experiment with Vinegars: Try different types of vinegar for unique flavor profiles. Apple cider vinegar can be a great substitute for rice wine vinegar.

Best Side Dishes for Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes. Here are some delicious options that pair wonderfully with this main course.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings earthy flavors that complement the chicken.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a rich backdrop for this flavorful dish.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds crunch and freshness, enhancing the overall meal experience.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs works well to soak up any leftover sauce from the chicken.
5. Cauliflower Rice: A lower-carb option that serves as a great base while adding texture without overpowering flavors.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred adds sweetness that pairs nicely with balsamic flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Properly seasoning the chicken is crucial. Don’t skip the spice mixture; it enhances the chicken’s flavor. Be generous and coat both sides evenly.

• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken can become dry if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Not deglazing the pan: Skipping the deglazing step can result in a less flavorful sauce. Always add vinegar after browning the chicken and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.

• Using old or stale spices: Freshness matters! Make sure your spices are not expired, as this can diminish flavor. Replace them periodically for optimal taste.

• Rushing the cooking time: Each step has its purpose. Ensure you allow enough time for each part of the recipe, particularly when baking in the oven.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes healthier?

You can use skinless chicken thighs for added flavor without too much fat. Additionally, incorporate more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers into the dish.

Can I substitute cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are unavailable. Just adjust cooking time as necessary.

What should I serve with Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce!

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken overnight and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This will enhance the flavors further!

Final Thoughts

The Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes is not only delightful but also easy to customize based on your preferences. Add different herbs or vegetables to make it your own! Enjoy this versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Give it a try today!

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Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a delightful Honey-Balsamic Chicken Dinner with Cherry Tomatoes, perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. This dish features succulent chicken breasts coated in a rich, sweet-and-tangy glaze made from honey and balsamic vinegar. Paired with juicy cherry tomatoes, it creates a vibrant presentation that will impress family and friends alike. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and simple preparation steps, this recipe is designed to make your cooking experience enjoyable and hassle-free. Get ready to savor the blend of flavors that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ¾ tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• Fresh herbs (chives, parsley, basil)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear the seasoned chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
3. Deglaze the pan with rice wine vinegar for 1-2 minutes. In another bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, and honey; pour over the chicken.
4. Cover the skillet and bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Add cherry tomatoes around the chicken and bake for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
5. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 120mg