This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a breeze to whip up! Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with colorful veggies, all made in just one pan. Less mess, more fun!
I love how everything cooks together, soaking up that yummy balsamic flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love an easy cleanup? Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook evenly. If you want, you can swap them for thighs for a juicier result, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Balsamic Vinegar: This is crucial for that tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, you could use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but they will change the taste slightly. Adding a pinch of sugar can help mimic balsamic sweetness.
Honey: It balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. If you need a substitute, maple syrup works well. For a sugar-free option, try using agave nectar or a stevia blend!
Vegetables: I used bell peppers and broccoli, but you can add or replace them with zucchini, carrots, or even asparagus. Just ensure they have similar cook times!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken to the right temperature ensures it’s juicy and safe to eat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet for that golden color. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Avoid overcooking by removing the chicken from the oven as soon as it reaches the right temperature.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy as the juices redistribute!
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option. You’ll spend a bit of time searing the chicken and tossing the veggies, but the oven does most of the work for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Season:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt and pepper to give them great flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. After that, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and broccoli florets. Cook these veggies for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell the wonderful garlic aroma.
4. Mix the Balsamic Sauce:
While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme in a small bowl. This mixture will add a delicious glaze to your chicken and veggies!
5. Combine and Bake:
Return the chicken breasts to the pan, placing them among the cooked vegetables. Pour the balsamic mixture over everything, ensuring it’s well coated. Now, transfer the skillet into the oven.
6. Bake and Serve:
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked all the way through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the vegetables are nice and tender. Once done, take the skillet out and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve it hot and enjoy your tasty, easy dinner!
This one pan balsamic chicken dinner is not just yummy but also colorful and healthy. Enjoy your cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute that will add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just be aware that they might require a few extra minutes in the oven since they can be a bit thicker.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute in This Recipe?
You can really customize this dish! Feel free to use whatever veggies you have on hand. Zucchini, asparagus, or even carrots would work beautifully. Just ensure they are cut to similar sizes for even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken and veggies moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and vegetables ahead, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just assemble everything in the pan and bake as directed. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights!
