One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
Making One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful and wholesome meal with minimal cleanup. This dish brings together juicy chicken breasts, vibrant vegetables, and a delicious tangy balsamic glaze, creating a dinner that your whole family can enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to prepare a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and one baking dish, you can bring together a delicious, balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The simplicity of this recipe doesn’t compromise on flavor; instead, it highlights how well chicken pairs with balsamic vinegar and seasonal vegetables. Plus, the minimal effort required to cook this dish means you can spend more quality time with your loved ones!
How to Make One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Vegetables of choice (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the balsamic mixture over them.
- Arrange your selected vegetables around the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
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Marinate Ahead: If you have time, marinating the chicken in the balsamic mixture for 30 minutes or longer can enhance the flavor significantly.
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Vegetable Variety: Feel free to mix in a variety of vegetables for added nutrients and textures. Cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or carrots are great additions.
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Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
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Leftover Sauce: Don’t forget to use the sauce that forms in the dish for drizzling over your servings. It’s packed with flavor!
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Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can elevate the taste and aroma of the dish.
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One-Pan Cooking: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan, so everything cooks evenly.
Flavor Variations One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
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Italian Flair: Add Italian seasoning or fresh oregano to the balsamic mixture for a more robust flavor.
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Honey Mustard Twist: Replace honey with honey mustard to give the dish a sweet and tangy punch.
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Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful heat to the balsamic glaze.
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Citrus Infusion: Add the zest and juice of a lemon or an orange to the marinade for a fresh taste.
Serving Suggestions One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
This One-Pan Balsamic Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
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Rice or Quinoa: A bed of fluffy rice or nutritious quinoa complements the flavors and makes for a hearty meal.
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Pasta: Tossing some pasta with a drizzle of olive oil and Parmesan on the side can elevate this dish further.
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Bread: Crusty French bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover balsamic sauce.
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Salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad to add a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
Storage and Freezing Instructions One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
If you have leftovers or want to meal prep for the week, storing this dish is easy:
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Refrigerating Leftovers: Place any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|—————|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
FAQ About One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier meal. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take longer to cook through. Always ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar mixed with a little sugar to mimic the sweetness of balsamic. Lemon juice can also be a good alternative and will add a refreshing zest.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken breast; it should be opaque and the juices should run clear.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add as many vegetables as you’d like. Just ensure that they cook evenly and fit neatly into the pan. Vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or asparagus work wonderfully in this recipe.
Is this recipe easy to double?
This recipe can be easily doubled if you’re serving a larger group. Just make sure you have a large enough baking dish to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding, which could lead to uneven cooking.
Final Thoughts
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience of bringing comfort and delight to your dining table with minimal fuss. With its easy preparation, vibrant flavors, and the added bonus of one-pan convenience, it’s perfect for families and busy individuals alike. You’ll love how this dish satisfies the palate while keeping things simple. So why not give it a try at your next dinner? You might just find it becomes a regular favorite!
Print
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Enjoy a flavorful and wholesome meal with minimal cleanup featuring juicy chicken breasts, vibrant vegetables, and a delicious tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Vegetables of choice (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the balsamic mixture over them.
- Arrange your selected vegetables around the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
Marinate chicken in the balsamic mixture for enhanced flavor. Feel free to vary the vegetables for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian