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Balsamic garlic chicken with tomatoes and spinach cooking in a single skillet

Tangy One-Skillet Balsamic Garlic Chicken with Sun-Kissed Tomatoes & Wilted Spinach

This one-skillet balsamic garlic chicken with sun-kissed tomatoes and wilted spinach is a flavorful and easy weeknight meal. Tender chicken is cooked in a tangy sauce with sweet tomatoes and fresh spinach, all in a single pan for minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven-safe skillet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts thinly sliced or pounded
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 5-6 cups fresh spinach one 5-6 oz bag
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar good quality recommended
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 tsp honey or brown sugar optional
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and pepper. If needed, slice them horizontally or pound to a 1/2-inch even thickness.

Cooking

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, then remove and set aside.
  • Reduce the heat to medium, add additional olive oil if needed, and sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in balsamic vinegar and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in honey or brown sugar and dried oregano, then bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-5 minutes until they soften and burst. Gradually add the fresh spinach, stirring until it completely wilts.
  • Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and vegetables. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm through and absorb flavors, then taste and adjust seasonings.

Serving

  • Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

This dish pairs well with a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.