Baked Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes: Easy, Healthy, and Flavorful One-Pan Dinner
Searching for that perfect chicken breast recipe that effortlessly combines health, flavor, and convenience? Look no further! This **Baked Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes** is a true culinary gem. Chicken breasts are renowned for being healthy, lean, quick to cook, and incredibly versatile, making them a staple in countless kitchens. This particular recipe elevates simple chicken into a delectable meal, proving that wholesome cooking can be both easy and exciting.
Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight and need a swift dinner solution or planning a special evening for guests or a date night, this balsamic chicken recipe fits the bill beautifully. It features tender chicken breasts bathed in a rich, tangy balsamic tomato sauce, brightened with fresh thyme and perfectly roasted plum tomatoes. This exquisite combination results in an easy meal that feels incredibly gourmet. Plus, for those tracking their intake, this dish is only 6 Weight Watchers points per serving (even if you savor every drop of the delicious sauce!). Get ready to add this amazing balsamic chicken to your family’s favorite dinner rotation – it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
I distinctly remember the first time I prepared this balsamic chicken recipe; it was for company, and it received rave reviews! Its appealing blend of flavors and straightforward preparation make it an ideal choice for entertaining. For another delightful, Weight Watchers friendly option that’s perfect for guests, you might also enjoy my Orange Hoisin Chicken. But for now, let’s dive deeper into the magic of this baked balsamic chicken.
🥘 Essential Ingredient Notes for Balsamic Chicken
This baked balsamic chicken recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also a fantastic way to utilize fresh, seasonal tomatoes. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the dish’s signature flavor profile.
- Plum Tomatoes (Roma Tomatoes): These tomatoes are a star in this recipe due to their ideal oval shape, firm texture, and wonderfully rich, tangy flavor. Unlike some other varieties, plum tomatoes hold their shape exceptionally well during baking, ensuring they don’t become mushy. This characteristic makes them perfect for roasting alongside the chicken, as they caramelize beautifully and release their juices into the sauce without disintegrating.
- High-Quality Balsamic Vinegar: The importance of using a good quality balsamic vinegar cannot be overstated, especially since it is the foundational flavor of this dish. A superior balsamic will lend a smoother, richer, and more nuanced taste to your sauce, devoid of the harsh bitterness often found in cheaper alternatives. (For specific recommendations, see our ‘Top Tip’ below!). Investing in a decent bottle truly elevates the entire meal.
- Fresh Thyme: While dried herbs can be convenient, fresh thyme brings an unparalleled aromatic depth and vibrant herbaceousness to this dish. Its delicate, earthy notes complement the tangy balsamic and sweet tomatoes perfectly, adding a layer of freshness that dried thyme simply can’t replicate. If fresh isn’t available, remember to use half the amount of dried.
- Dijon Mustard: This often-underestimated ingredient is crucial for adding complexity and a subtle spicy kick to the balsamic sauce. Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier, helping to bind the sauce ingredients together, and its sharp, slightly pungent flavor cuts through the richness, providing an essential depth that balances the overall taste.
*A comprehensive list of all ingredients and precise quantities can be found in the recipe card at the end of this article.
Top Tip: Choosing the Best Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
When balsamic vinegar is the star of your dish, its quality genuinely makes all the difference. Anyone who has inadvertently used a poor-quality balsamic knows the disappointment—often characterized by an unpleasantly bitter taste that can overwhelm a dish. My personal revelation came with **Kirkland Signature Balsamic Vinegar of Modena**. I stumbled upon it during a Costco trip and was genuinely astonished by its exceptional smoothness and balanced flavor. For me, it quickly became the benchmark for a great balsamic.
My informal discovery was later validated when I researched balsamic vinegars for an article and found a taste test of “economical” brands where Kirkland’s emerged in **FIRST PLACE**! The judges consistently praised its interesting aroma, noting hints of wood, its pleasing viscosity, and its superior sweet-to-sour balance. Panelists described it as “brighter on the palate” and detected “hints of cherries on the nose,” with many commending its delightful finish. The consensus was clear: it offered an excellent sweet-to-sour balance and a pleasing finish, especially considering its accessible price point. I wholeheartedly concur with these assessments.
You can read more about the original balsamic vinegar taste test HERE. This vinegar isn’t just for cooking; try it drizzled with olive oil for dipping some Onion and Olive Bread Machine bread – it’s a simple pleasure. So, if you’re not inclined to spend $75 or more on a bottle of 12+ year aged, premium balsamic, the Kirkland brand offers incredible value and quality for around $21, and it will last you a very long time.
📖 Versatile Variations & Smart Substitutions
This baked balsamic chicken recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative!
- Thyme Alternatives: While fresh thyme offers superior flavor, you can certainly substitute dried thyme. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use only half the amount (e.g., 1 tablespoon dried instead of 2 tablespoons fresh).
- Tomato Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes are fantastic for roasting, bursting with sweetness when cooked. You can also use larger garden tomatoes, simply chop them into bite-sized pieces before arranging them in the pan.
- Chicken Cuts: For a slightly richer flavor and juicier texture, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. The cooking time might need a slight adjustment (thighs generally take a bit longer), so always rely on an internal thermometer.
- Cheese Options: If reduced-fat parmesan cheese isn’t available or preferred, regular grated parmesan cheese works beautifully. You could also try a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella or a crumbled goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add a Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes added to the balsamic sauce will provide a welcome warmth and depth. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level.
- Herb Variations: Consider other fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different aromatic twist, or a combination of Italian herbs for a Mediterranean flair.
🔪 How to Make Flavorful Baked Balsamic Chicken
Preparing this exquisite balsamic chicken dish is simpler than you might imagine. Follow these easy steps for a delicious and impressive meal.
Before you begin, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C).
Crafting the Balsamic Sauce:
In a small saucepan, whisk together the tomato juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, fresh thyme, Dijon mustard, granulated sugar, and minced garlic. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat. Continue to boil, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. The sauce should thicken considerably, becoming rich enough to generously coat the back of a spoon. Once thickened, set aside a ¼ cup of this luscious balsamic reduction; this will be used for serving, allowing your guests to add more flavor as desired.
Next, prepare your baking dish. Halve your plum tomatoes lengthwise and arrange them evenly in a 9×13 inch baking pan that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray. Spoon approximately one-third of your prepared balsamic sauce over the tomatoes, ensuring they are well coated. Finish this layer by sprinkling a portion of the reduced-fat parmesan cheese over the sauced tomatoes.
Pat your boneless, skinless chicken breasts thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear and ensuring the sauce adheres well. Place the dried chicken breasts in the 9×13 inch baking dish alongside the tomatoes. To help the flavorful balsamic sauce penetrate deeper into the chicken, lightly score the surface of each breast with a fork or a sharp knife. Alternatively, you can gently pound the chicken with a meat mallet to an even thickness, which also aids in tenderization and quick, even cooking.
Generously coat the tops of the chicken breasts with the remaining balsamic sauce. Be sure to use the main batch of sauce, *not* the ¼ cup you reserved earlier for serving.
Cooking Time: Transfer the prepared baking dish to your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25-35 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around the 15-minute mark), carefully turn the chicken breasts and spoon some of the accumulated pan juices and sauce over them. This basting technique helps to keep the chicken moist and infuses it with even more flavor.
Continue baking until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. Once cooked, remove from the oven. Serve your baked balsamic chicken immediately, drizzling with the reserved ¼ cup of balsamic sauce. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle the roasted tomatoes with a little more parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated dish!
✅ Expert Recipe Tips for Perfect Balsamic Chicken
Achieving perfectly cooked, flavorful balsamic chicken is easy with a few expert insights. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your dish is a resounding success every time.
- Utilize a Meat Thermometer for Optimal Doneness: The key to juicy chicken breasts is avoiding overcooking. A reliable meat thermometer (affiliate link) is your best friend here. Insert the probe into the thickest part of the chicken breast, away from any bone, and cook until it reads precisely 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safely cooked yet remains tender and moist.
- Score Chicken Breasts for Enhanced Flavor Absorption: Before applying the sauce, take a moment to lightly score the surface of your chicken breasts with a fork or a shallow knife cut. These small incisions allow the rich balsamic sauce to penetrate deeper into the meat, ensuring every bite is infused with savory flavor and preventing the sauce from merely sitting on the surface.
- Prioritize High-Quality Balsamic Vinegar: As the name suggests, balsamic vinegar is paramount to this dish’s success. The flavor profile of your finished meal heavily relies on it. Opt for a good-quality balsamic, such as the recommended Kirkland Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, for a smoother, richer, and more complex sauce. Be wary of cheaper vinegars that might contain added caramel coloring or artificial sweeteners, as these can detract from the authentic taste.
- Prevent Overcrowding the Baking Dish: For even cooking and beautiful caramelization, arrange the chicken breasts and tomatoes in a single layer within the baking dish. Ensure there’s some space between each piece. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking, resulting in a less flavorful and less appealing texture. A little breathing room allows the heat to circulate properly, giving you those delicious roasted edges.
- Don’t Skip the Basting: The instruction to spoon the sauce over the chicken halfway through cooking isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a technique that keeps the chicken moist and continuously coats it in that wonderful balsamic flavor. This basting action ensures an even distribution of flavor and a beautifully glazed finish.
After a long and demanding day, having a straightforward yet incredibly satisfying meal to turn to is invaluable. This easy one-pan baked chicken and tomato recipe perfectly fits that need. With minimal prep time and a simple cooking process, you can effortlessly create a healthy, delicious, and deeply satisfying dinner. It’s the kind of comforting meal that makes you look forward to weeknights.
🥗 What to Serve with Balsamic Chicken
This Baked Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of my favorite recommendations to complete your meal:
- Perfect Potatoes: My go-to side is always baked potatoes. They can be popped into the oven right alongside the chicken, ensuring everything finishes cooking at the same time for ultimate convenience. For an elevated twist, try these Onion Soup Mix Baked Potatoes in Foil (as pictured below) – they can even be prepped ahead of time! Roasted sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes are also excellent choices.
- Low-Carb Bread Alternatives: If you’re looking for a low-carb bread option to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce, my Everything Bagel Cloud Bread Recipe is a fantastic, 0-point Weight Watchers friendly choice.
- Classic Bread Options: For those who don’t mind a few extra calories and Weight Watchers points, my indulgent Garlic Bread from Baguette is absolutely divine and truly complements the tangy chicken. A simple crusty bread or focaccia would also be wonderful.
- Fresh Vegetable Sides:
- Green Beans and Mushrooms: An easy and elegant choice, sautéed green beans and mushrooms add a delightful texture and earthy flavor.
- Skinny Coleslaw: For a refreshing, crunchy contrast, this 0 Weight Watchers point Skinny Coleslaw is light and vibrant.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good idea to balance the richness of the chicken.
- Strawberry Spinach Pecan Salad: For a mildly sweet and nutty accompaniment that perfectly complements the tangy chicken, try this Strawberry Spinach Pecan Salad.
- Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli: Quick-roasted asparagus or broccoli tossed with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper make for a healthy and flavorful green vegetable side.
🌡️ Storage & Reheating Tips
One of the many benefits of this baked balsamic chicken recipe is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Properly stored, you can savor this delicious meal days after preparing it.
- Refrigeration: Allow any leftover balsamic chicken breasts and roasted tomatoes to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This ensures freshness and prevents spoilage.
- Freezing: For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Once cooled, place the chicken and tomatoes in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating:
- Oven Method (Recommended): For best results, especially with chicken, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps the chicken retain its moisture and prevents it from drying out. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan before reheating to keep it juicy.
- Microwave Method: For a quicker option, individual servings can be reheated in the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring the tomatoes occasionally, until hot. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can become tough.
👪 Serving Size & Adjustments
This easy baked balsamic chicken and roasted tomato recipe is designed to yield 4 satisfying servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a few days of meal prep. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility when it comes to serving sizes.
Whether you’re cooking for one, a crowd, or simply want to have more leftovers, you can easily adjust the recipe. Simply click on the serving number within the interactive recipe card below and select your desired number of servings. The ingredient quantities will automatically adjust, saving you the hassle of manual calculations. This makes scaling the recipe up or down incredibly convenient, ensuring you always have the right amount of ingredients for your needs.
🔢 Weight Watchers Points
We’re thrilled to share that this flavorful baked balsamic chicken breast recipe is completely Weight Watchers friendly! Each generous serving clocks in at just 6 Weight Watchers points. This calculation includes all the delicious balsamic sauce, so you can enjoy every last drop without guilt. If you happen to use slightly less sauce, your points could be even lower, making it an excellent choice for a healthy and satisfying meal that aligns with your wellness goals.
❔ Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! This recipe is wonderful for meal prepping. You can prepare the balsamic sauce and arrange the chicken and tomatoes in the baking dish several hours in advance. Cover the dish tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop it into the preheated oven and bake as directed. This makes entertaining or busy weeknights much less stressful!
If your balsamic sauce becomes too thick during cooking, you can easily thin it out to your desired consistency by whisking in a small amount of water, chicken broth, or additional tomato juice. If it’s too thin, you can return it to the saucepan and simmer for a few more minutes over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, allowing it to reduce and thicken further.
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it is crucial that they are fully thawed before you begin the recipe. Cooking chicken directly from frozen can lead to uneven cooking, where the outside might be done while the inside is still cold or undercooked. Always ensure your chicken is completely defrosted to achieve the best texture and proper internal temperature.
Certainly! Grilling offers a fantastic smoky flavor. Marinate the chicken breasts in the balsamic sauce (reserving some for later) for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator. Grill the chicken over medium heat for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). While the chicken grills, you can still roast the tomatoes in the oven as directed. Serve the grilled chicken alongside the baked tomatoes and drizzle with the reserved balsamic sauce.
As I often say, you can never have too many easy chicken recipes in your repertoire. So, if you’re eager to discover even more healthy and simple chicken breast meals, I highly recommend giving my low-carb 5 Ingredient Caprese Sheet Pan Chicken Breast a try! It’s another fantastic option for a quick, delicious, and wholesome dinner.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!
🐔 More Healthy & Delicious Chicken Breast Recipes
If you loved this Baked Balsamic Chicken, you’re in for a treat! Chicken breasts are a staple for healthy and versatile meals. Explore more of our favorite healthy chicken breast recipes that are perfect for any occasion:
- Honey Sriracha Chicken Lettuce Wraps
- Slow Cooker Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
- Healthy Butter Chicken Recipe (WW Friendly)
- Baked Chicken Cacciatore
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📋 Baked Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Tomatoes Recipe
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Equipment
-
9×13 inch baking pan with lid
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 plum tomatoes
- 3 tablespoon reduced-fat parmesan cheese
Balsamic Sauce
- ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar (high-quality recommended)
- ⅓ cup tomato juice
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C).
For the Balsamic Sauce:
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In a small saucepan, whisk together the tomato juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, fresh thyme, Dijon mustard, granulated sugar, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then continue to boil, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until it thickens sufficiently to coat the back of a spoon. Measure out and set aside ¼ cup of this thickened sauce for serving with the finished chicken.⅓ cup balsamic vinegar, ⅓ cup tomato juice, 3 tablespoon olive oil, 2 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, 2 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar, 1 clove of garlic, minced
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Cut the plum tomatoes in half lengthwise and arrange them in a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Spoon about one-third of the balsamic sauce over the tomatoes, then sprinkle with a portion of the parmesan cheese.8 plum tomatoes
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Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in the baking pan alongside the tomatoes. Lightly score the surface of each chicken breast with a fork to help absorb the sauce.4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 3 tablespoon reduced-fat parmesan cheese
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Generously coat the top of the chicken breasts with the remaining balsamic sauce (ensure you are using the main batch, NOT the ¼ cup reserved for serving).
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes. At approximately 15 minutes (halfway through cooking), carefully turn the chicken and spoon some of the pan juices and sauce over the chicken to baste it.
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Continue baking until the chicken is no longer pink inside and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) when tested with a meat thermometer in the thickest part. Serve immediately with the reserved sauce. If desired, sprinkle the roasted tomatoes with a little more parmesan cheese before serving.
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Serve your delicious balsamic chicken and roasted tomatoes with baked potatoes or other desired additional vegetables.
Notes
Recipe Tips:
-
- Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfect Doneness. To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer (affiliate link). Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast, and make sure it reads 165°F (74°C).
- Score the Chicken for Better Flavor Absorption. Use a fork or knife to score the chicken breasts lightly before coating them with the sauce. This helps the balsamic sauce penetrate deeper, enhancing flavor in every bite.
- Opt for High-Quality Balsamic Vinegar. The flavor of this dish relies heavily on the balsamic vinegar. A good-quality balsamic (such as Balsamic Vinegar of Modena) will result in a smoother, richer sauce. Avoid vinegars with added caramel coloring or artificial sweeteners.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Baking Dish. Arrange the chicken and tomatoes in a single layer with some space between each piece. This allows for even heat circulation and prevents steaming instead of baking.
Top Tip – Choosing Quality Balsamic Vinegar
The quality of your balsamic vinegar significantly impacts this recipe’s flavor. Using a good quality balsamic, like Kirkland Signature Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, ensures a smooth, rich sauce without bitterness. This brand consistently performs well in taste tests for its excellent sweet-to-sour balance and pleasing finish. It’s a great economical choice that delivers premium flavor.
For a more detailed read on balsamic vinegar selection, you can explore the original taste test HERE.
*Note: You can use other vegetables alongside or in place of the plum tomatoes, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, for variations in flavor and texture.