Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: I always choose boneless, skinless chicken because it cooks evenly and stays juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast works well too!

Olive Oil: It’s the go-to for sautéing, but you can use any cooking oil you prefer. Avocado oil is a great substitute with a high smoke point.

Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the dish a wonderful tang. You can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you don’t have balsamic. Just add a pinch of sugar to mimic the sweetness!

Honey or Maple Syrup: I love honey for its flavor, but maple syrup is a nice alternative for a different twist. Agave syrup works too if you’re vegan.

Veggies: The cherry tomatoes and bell peppers bring color and freshness. You can switch them up based on what you have, like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli!

How Can I Ensure the Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking chicken just right is key! Here’s how to get it juicy and tender:

• Start by searing the chicken in a hot pan; it gives flavor and seals in moisture.
• Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) ensures it’s cooked through. Avoid cutting into it before checking to keep the juices inside!
• If using thicker breasts, consider slicing them in half horizontally for even cooking.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps retain moisture.

Enjoy making this one-pan meal—it’s quick, delicious, and full of flavor!

Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious one-pan dinner takes around 10 minutes to prep and about 20-25 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at a total of about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s ready to go when you’re done preparing the chicken and veggies.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor!

3. Sear the Chicken:

In a large, oven-safe skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

4. Sauté the Veggies:

In the same pan, add the minced garlic, sliced onions, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies start to soften and the kitchen is filled with yummy smells!

5. Add the Flavor:

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and dried Italian herbs. Let this mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld nicely.

6. Combine Chicken and Veggies:

Now, return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it among the sautéed veggies. This way, it gets all the delicious flavors!

7. Bake:

Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (you want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Once cooked, take the pan out of the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm, spooning the balsamic glaze and veggies over the chicken. Enjoy your flavorful and easy one-pan balsamic chicken dinner!

FAQ

Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before starting. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge or by using the cold water method—place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.

What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Just add a teaspoon of sugar to replicate the sweetness that balsamic provides.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just bake it as directed. You might need to add an extra few minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.