This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a winner for busy days! It’s made with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a yummy balsamic sauce, all cooked together in one pan for less cleanup!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect here for easy cooking. If you want a twist, try using thighs for extra flavor, or make it vegetarian with tofu or chickpeas instead!
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the dish its tangy flavor. If you’re out, apple cider vinegar is a great substitute, just reduce the amount a little bit since it’s stronger.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Either sweetener balances the tangy balsamic. If you’re avoiding sugar, try agave nectar or stevia for a low-carb option.
Vegetables: I love cherry tomatoes and green beans, but feel free to mix in other veggies like zucchini or asparagus! Just remember, different cook times may require adjustments.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is key for this dish! Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and safe to eat:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—165°F (74°C) is the target!
- Start by searing the chicken to lock in juices before baking.
- Leave it to rest for a few minutes after baking; it helps keep the moisture in!
Following these tips will help you achieve delicious and perfectly cooked chicken every time! Happy cooking! 🍗
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red or yellow)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful one-pan dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 40 minutes. You’ll have a delicious, healthy dinner on the table without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), so it’s nice and hot for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take those chicken breasts and sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides. This will add flavor right from the beginning!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Then, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add minced garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, trimmed green beans, and sliced bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to soften. They’ll soak up great flavor from the chicken drippings!
5. Make the Balsamic Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them among the veggies. This way, they’ll cook together and absorb all that yummy flavor!
7. Bake It All Together:
Transfer the pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You can check if the chicken is done by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The veggies should be tender and juicy too!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven. If you’d like, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a bright finish. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one pan meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking!
Can I Substitute the Honey in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as substitutes for honey. If you need a low-sugar alternative, consider using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting the quantity to taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist if necessary.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables! Zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli can be great additions. Just keep in mind that different veggies may have varying cook times, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender!
