This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a simple and tasty meal. With juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a tangy balsamic glaze, it’s a feast in no time!
I love how everything cooks together in just one pan. Less mess means more time to enjoy my food, right? Plus, who doesn’t love a quick cleanup? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is the way to go for this dish. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Baby carrots and green beans add color and crunch. You can swap them with broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini based on what you have on hand.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for that tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar can work, but it’s not as sweet. You might want to add a bit more honey to balance the taste.
Honey: It helps to balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar. You can use maple syrup or agave if you’re looking for a vegan option.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time. The goal is to get it golden outside while remaining juicy inside.
- Start by heating the skillet properly—medium-high is ideal.
- Cook chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Don’t rush this; the browning adds flavor.
- Check that it’s done by cutting into the thickest part or using a meat thermometer (165°F or 74°C).
With these tips and the delicious glaze, your chicken will be both well-cooked and bursting with flavor! Enjoy your one-pan meal! 🍽️
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 baby carrots
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 25-30 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and easy dinner option. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy yet tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that heats, season the chicken breasts on both sides with a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will enhance their flavor nicely!
2. Sear the Chicken
Next, heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once browned, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic, baby carrots, green beans, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to soften up a bit.
4. Make the Balsamic Glaze
While the veggies are cooking, grab a small bowl. Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. This glaze will add a wonderful tangy sweetness to your dish.
5. Combine Everything Together
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Place the chicken back into the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables. Then, pour that tasty balsamic glaze evenly over the chicken and veggies, ensuring everything is nicely coated.
6. Bake Away!
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven, and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked (reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the veggies are tender.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once it’s done, take the skillet out of the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve it up and enjoy your delightful, balanced meal!
This meal is not only easy to make, but it also looks great on your dinner table! Perfect for impressing family or friends with minimal effort. Enjoy! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Absolutely! You can swap the baby carrots and green beans with vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if you use softer veggies to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a side salad to balance out the flavors. You can also serve it on a bed of pasta if you’re in the mood for something hearty!
