This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a real time-saver! Juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a tangy balsamic glaze all come together in one pan for a simple meal.
Who doesn’t love minimal cleanup? I toss everything in the pan, watch it sizzle, and enjoy a tasty dish without the mess. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too and provide more flavor.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness, and green beans provide crunch. If they’re out of season, you can use other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus to keep it colorful!
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient is key for that tangy glaze. If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute with red wine vinegar, just add a touch more honey for sweetness.
Honey or Maple Syrup: I like honey for its flavor, but maple syrup gives a lovely twist too. If you need a sugar-free option, consider using stevia or a sugar substitute.
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs are easy and convenient, but fresh herbs like basil or thyme bring even better flavor. Toss them in just before serving for a fresh touch!
How Do I Sear Chicken Perfectly?
Searing chicken is all about achieving that lovely golden color while keeping it juicy inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet with olive oil until it’s hot. You should see it shimmering.
- Season your chicken generously before placing it in the skillet.
- Place the chicken in the pan without crowding it; this lets it brown properly.
- Sear for about 3-4 minutes undisturbed, then flip and cook the other side until golden—this builds flavor!
- Remove it from the pan before fully cooking. It’ll finish in the oven, staying juicy and tender.
How to Make Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner takes about 10 minutes to prep, followed by about 20-25 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 35 minutes total, you’ll have a nutritious and flavorful meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready once you finish cooking on the stove.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right to the meat!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. After searing, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and trimmed green beans. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and release their flavors. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
5. Mix the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and dried Italian herbs. This will create a lovely glaze that will enhance the dish.
6. Combine and Bake:
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the sautéed vegetables. Then, pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken and veggies, ensuring everything is well coated. Now it’s time to bake!
7. Bake Until Cooked:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the meal rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken tender.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Just before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Now, dig in and enjoy your flavorful One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Make sure to pat them dry for the best sear!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute for Green Beans and Cherry Tomatoes?
If you can’t find green beans or cherry tomatoes, feel free to use other vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, or even broccoli work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for firmer veggies.
Can I Prepare This Meal in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture and chop the veggies. Store everything in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to cook, just sear the chicken and continue with the recipe as directed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Enjoy your leftovers as a quick meal!
