Prepare to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, restaurant-quality chicken dish you can make in just 35 minutes! This Balsamic Tarragon Chicken Skillet is not just another boring chicken recipe - it's a flavor explosion that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken breasts nestled in a vibrant sauce of sweet balsamic vinegar, aromatic fresh tarragon, and juicy cherry tomatoes that will transform your ordinary meal into a culinary masterpiece.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups spinach
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and appears slightly rippling.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side, allowing a golden-brown crust to form without moving the chicken.
- Flip chicken breasts and reduce heat to medium. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a clean plate. Keep warm by tenting with aluminum foil.
- In the same skillet, add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Pour balsamic vinegar into the skillet, stirring to deglaze and incorporate the pan's flavorful browned bits.
- Add fresh chopped tarragon and spinach to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts slightly.
- Return chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the tomato-spinach mixture over the top to reheat and combine flavors.
- Plate the chicken and spoon the balsamic tarragon sauce and vegetables over each breast before serving immediately.
Tips
- • Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken is cooked to exactly 165°F • Don't move the chicken while it's initial searing - this creates that delicious crispy exterior • Fresh tarragon is key - dried herbs won't provide the same bright, complex flavor • Choose ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best sauce consistency • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy • For extra richness, you can add a small pat of butter when deglazing the pan • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 258kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
