Balsamic Chicken Breast with Spinach and Tomatoes: A Simple Yet Elegant Weeknight Dinner

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Introduction

In the fast-paced world of weeknight dinners, it can feel nearly impossible to find a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between healthy, flavorful, and easy to make. Many dishes promise quick cook times but fall flat on taste or complexity. That’s where this recipe for Balsamic Chicken Breast with Spinach and Tomatoes shines. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly light, nutritious, and utterly delicious.

This recipe captures the best of Mediterranean flavors: the sweet tang of balsamic vinegar, the savory depth of pan-seared chicken, the freshness of ripe tomatoes, and the vibrant green of wilted spinach. It’s elegant enough for a date night, yet easy enough for a Tuesday. Plus, it all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this is a go-to recipe that’s sure to land in your regular rotation.

We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this recipe foolproof—from choosing the best ingredients, to step-by-step cooking instructions, tips to maximize flavor, and even ideas for sides and wine pairings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Dish:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional but recommended)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. If the breasts are thick, consider slicing them horizontally to make cutlets for quicker, more even cooking. In a zip-top bag or shallow bowl, mix the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat thoroughly. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but preferably 1–2 hours. While a longer marinade helps deepen the flavor, even a short soak will do wonders.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade (let the excess drip off) and add it to the pan. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side or until nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest.

Step 3: Sauté the Tomatoes

In the same pan, add the halved tomatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their juices. You can add a pinch of salt or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Add the spinach to the pan with the tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth to help create a light sauce and aid in wilting. Stir and cook until the spinach is just wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the tomatoes and spinach over the top. Drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze for extra flavor and a beautiful finish. Let everything heat together for another minute so the flavors meld.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the chicken and top it with the tomato-spinach mixture. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and an extra dash of black pepper or red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips for the Best Balsamic Chicken

1. Use Good-Quality Balsamic Vinegar

Not all balsamic vinegars are created equal. Look for one that’s thick and naturally sweet. If your vinegar is very acidic or thin, you can add a teaspoon of honey to the marinade to balance the flavors.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

If you’re cooking more than two breasts, consider doing it in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, and you want that beautiful golden crust on your chicken.

3. Deglaze with Chicken Broth

After removing the chicken, the brown bits left in the pan (known as fond) are full of flavor. Adding broth not only helps wilt the spinach but also incorporates those savory bits into your sauce.

4. Add Fresh Herbs for Brightness

If you have fresh basil or parsley on hand, sprinkle some on top just before serving. It adds color, freshness, and a burst of flavor.

5. Make it a Meal

Want to make it more filling? Serve it over whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, or even a bed of pasta. The juices from the dish make a natural sauce that pairs beautifully with carbs.

Variations and Customizations

  • Add Cheese: A few slices of fresh mozzarella or a sprinkle of feta can add a creamy, tangy element.
  • Swap the Greens: No spinach? Kale or Swiss chard works well too. Just be sure to cook heartier greens a bit longer.
  • Boost the Sauce: A splash of cream or a tablespoon of butter stirred in at the end will create a richer sauce if you’re feeling indulgent.
  • Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
  • Use Chicken Thighs: Prefer dark meat? Boneless, skinless thighs are juicier and work just as well.

What to Serve With Balsamic Chicken

  • Side Dishes:
    • Garlic mashed potatoes
    • Lemon herb quinoa
    • Buttered noodles
    • Roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans)
    • Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
  • Wine Pairings:
    • A dry white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
    • A light red like Pinot Noir
    • A rosé for a summery touch

Storing and Reheating

This dish stores beautifully. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

You can also freeze the cooked chicken, but we recommend making the spinach and tomato component fresh for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Balsamic Chicken Breast with Spinach and Tomatoes recipe is everything a weeknight dinner should be: fast, flavorful, and good for you. It offers a restaurant-quality experience using everyday ingredients and simple techniques. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, impress a guest, or just shake up your dinner routine, this dish fits the bill.

The flavors are layered and complex—the sweet acidity of balsamic vinegar, the earthy richness of pan-seared chicken, the burst of tomatoes, and the bright green of spinach. It’s a perfect example of how a few high-impact ingredients can transform a simple meal into something memorable.

So light those candles, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy a little moment of culinary joy—no reservations required.