This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a total time-saver! Juicy chicken is cooked with colorful veggies and a tangy balsamic glaze, all in one pan. Less clean-up, more yum!
I love how the balsamic sauce makes everything taste like a fancy meal. Plus, you can just toss it all in one pan and relax while it cooks—who doesn’t like that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their quick cooking time. If you’re in a pinch, thighs can work too; they stay juicy and add flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: The star of the show! If balsamic isn’t your favorite, try apple cider vinegar for a different tang. Just remember to add a pinch of sugar to mimic that sweetness.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow add a pop of color and sweetness, but feel free to use green peppers or even zucchini if you have those on hand.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These add sweetness to balance the vinegar. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, try using agave syrup or a sugar substitute that measures like honey.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to the perfect doneness can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and technique! Here’s how I do it:
- Start by searing the chicken in hot oil to get a nice golden brown crust—this seals in moisture.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the pan; this helps the chicken cook evenly. If you have to, do it in batches!
- Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness—165°F is your goal. This ensures the chicken is cooked without becoming dry.
How to Make Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one pan meal will take about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll just let it bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes. In total, you can have this beautiful dish ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, sliced red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for around 3-4 minutes, stirring gently until the veggies start to soften.
5. Add Cherry Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the tomatoes to mix with the other veggies.
6. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and the dried Italian seasoning. This sweet and tangy sauce will bring everything together!
7. Combine Everything:
Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables. Pour the balsamic glaze over both the chicken and the veggies, ensuring everything is covered well.
8. Bake in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the vegetables are tender.
9. Serve:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Spoon some of the delicious pan sauce over the chicken and vegetables. If you’d like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for an extra touch.
And there you have it! An easy, flavorful one pan balsamic chicken dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli based on your preference. Just keep in mind some veggies may require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, try using apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar mixed with a little sugar or honey to replicate the sweet tanginess.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop—add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the recipe steps, adjusting the cooking time if needed.
