Balsamic chicken with spinach and cherry tomatoes

Balsamic chicken with spinach and cherry tomatoes offers a blend of tender chicken, tangy balsamic, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a quick meal. This simple yet flavorful dish is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

22 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 50 min

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breasts
2 tbsp vinegar
2 tsp brown sugar
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp olive oil
1.50 cups cherry tomatoes
3 cups spinach
1/2 cup basil leaves

Balsamic chicken with spinach and cherry tomatoes is a delicious and nutritious meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy weekend lunch. The combination of tender chicken breasts, tangy balsamic vinegar, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. Additionally, the basil leaves add a fragrant touch, enhancing the overall taste. This recipe is simple to prepare and requires only a handful of ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those looking to cook a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- If desired, you can slice the breasts into thinner cutlets for quicker cooking.

2. Prepare the Balsamic Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.

3. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is nicely browned.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

4. Sauté the Cherry Tomatoes:
- In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes.
- Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Pour the balsamic mixture over the tomatoes, stirring well to coat them.

5. Add the Spinach:
- Lower the heat to medium and add the fresh spinach to the skillet.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted.

6. Combine Everything:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it on top of the spinach and tomatoes.
- Spoon some of the balsamic mixture over the chicken.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to heat through.

7. Finish with Basil:
- Sprinkle the chopped or whole fresh basil leaves over the chicken and vegetables just before serving.

8. Serve:
- Serve the balsamic chicken on plates, ensuring each portion gets a mix of chicken, spinach, tomatoes, and some of the delicious balsamic sauce.

Balsamic chicken with spinach and cherry tomatoes is a delightful and wholesome dish that brings together the best of fresh, vibrant ingredients. The tender chicken, sautéed with garlic and balsamic vinegar, melds beautifully with the sweet cherry tomatoes and nutrient-packed spinach. Completing the dish with fragrant basil leaves adds a layer of freshness that is hard to resist. Perfect for a family dinner or for impressing guests, this recipe proves that healthy eating can be both simple and delicious.

Balsamic chicken with spinach and cherry tomatoes FAQ:

What is the cooking time for the chicken in this recipe?

The chicken breasts should cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side in a skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for doneness.

Can I use another type of vinegar instead of balsamic vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor will vary slightly. Balsamic provides a unique sweetness and depth that's hard to replicate.

How do I store leftovers of this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving, ensuring the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) again.

What can I use instead of spinach in this recipe?

You can replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard. Both will require a slightly longer cooking time to soften completely.

What size skillet should I use for this recipe?

A large skillet (about 10-12 inches) is ideal for cooking the chicken and sautéing the vegetables to ensure they have enough space to cook evenly.

Cooking Tips:

- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

- Ensure that the chicken breasts are cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.

- Consider cutting the cherry tomatoes in halves to allow them to cook more evenly and release their juices more quickly.

- Stir in baby spinach just before finishing the dish to keep the leaves vibrant and not overcooked.

- Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves just before serving to enhance the aroma and flavor of the dish.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 160kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 5g
Fiber 1.22g
Sugar 3.37g
Fat 7g

Balsamic chicken with spinach and cherry tomatoes