This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a tangy balsamic glaze all cooked together for simple clean-up and big flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook quickly. If you need a substitute, try thighs for juiciness or go for tofu for a vegetarian option.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a sweet and tangy flavor. If you’re out, red wine vinegar mixed with a touch of sugar can work as a substitute.
Vegetables: The combination of carrots, green beans, and bell peppers gives color and nutrients. Feel free to swap in your favorites—zucchini or broccoli can be nice alternatives!
Honey or Maple Syrup: This balances the vinegar. Use maple syrup if you’re looking for a vegan option, or agave nectar is another great substitute.
How Do I Get Perfectly Sautéed Vegetables?
Sautéing vegetables isn’t tricky! The key is to cook them until they are just tender but still crisp. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high so it’s hot enough to sear.
- Add the vegetables and stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Remember, they will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overdo it!
This technique keeps veggies vibrant and adds lovely flavor to the dish.
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup baby carrots or sliced carrots
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- For the Balsamic Sauce:
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one pan balsamic chicken dinner takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook, totaling around 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Skillet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s ready when you need to finish cooking. While it’s heating, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden brown. This step adds flavor and gives the chicken a nice crust. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the carrots, green beans, and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté the veggies for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften but are not fully cooked. This will help them stay crisp after baking. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until you can smell that delicious aroma!
4. Make the Balsamic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and dried thyme. This sauce will give your dish a tangy and sweet glaze.
5. Combine and Bake:
Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it among the sautéed vegetables. Pour the balsamic mixture evenly over everything, making sure to cover the chicken well. Pop the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the veggies are perfectly tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley for color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your effortless, one pan balsamic chicken dinner!
Bon appétit! You’re going to love how easy and delicious this meal is!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to ***thaw them completely*** before starting the recipe. Kew methods for thawing include placing them in the fridge overnight or sealing them in a plastic bag and soaking them in cold water for a quicker option!
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, you can use ***red wine vinegar*** mixed with a little sugar, or apple cider vinegar for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can ***prep the chicken and vegetables*** ahead of time and store them in the fridge. The balsamic sauce can also be made in advance. Just assemble everything and bake when you’re ready to eat!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an ***airtight container in the fridge*** for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through for the best texture!
