This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a real time-saver! Juicy chicken meets vibrant veggies all cooked together with a tangy balsamic glaze. Yum!
I love how everything cooks in one pan – less mess and more flavor! Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want a tasty meal without the hassle. Who doesn’t appreciate that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you need a substitute, try chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cherry Tomatoes: These offer a sweet burst of flavor. If they’re out of season, feel free to use canned diced tomatoes or regular tomatoes, chopped. You can also swap them for bell peppers for a different taste.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a nice crunch to the dish. If they’re hard to find, frozen green beans work well too. You could also use broccoli or asparagus as alternatives!
Balsamic Vinegar: This brings acidity and sweetness. You can substitute it with red wine vinegar mixed with a little sugar or maple syrup if needed.
Honey: It balances the balsamic vinegar’s sharpness. Use maple syrup or agave for a vegan alternative if you prefer.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken So It Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken tender and juicy, searing is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot, then add olive oil to prevent sticking.
- After seasoning your chicken, place it carefully in the pan without overcrowding for best browning.
- Cook until it’s golden brown on both sides before baking it. This caramelizes the outside and seals in moisture.
Also, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist when you cut into it.
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Before you start cooking, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the chicken. This helps cook it evenly.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and sprinkle them with salt and black pepper on both sides. This is how you add flavor to the chicken!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they’re golden brown, then flip them over and do the same for another 4-5 minutes. When done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, cherry tomatoes, and green beans. Stir everything together and cook for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the veggies start to soften a bit.
5. Make the Balsamic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and dried Italian herbs. This mixture will bring an amazing flavor to your dish!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the pan, tucking them among the vegetables. Pour the balsamic mixture over the top, ensuring everything is nicely coated.
7. Bake:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
8. Finishing Touches:
After baking, pull the skillet out of the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately. Enjoy your warm and hearty dinner!
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is not just easy; it’s also packed with flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or impressing guests!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since bone-in chicken takes longer to cook compared to boneless. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have green beans or cherry tomatoes on hand, you can easily swap them out for other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the veggies you choose!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add the balsamic mixture right before baking for the best flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.
