This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a tasty meal that’s super simple! Juicy chicken is cooked with colorful veggies, all tossed in a yummy balsamic sauce.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work great too! They’re juicier and add extra flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient gives the dish its tangy sweetness. If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, try using red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar for a similar effect.
Honey or Brown Sugar: These add sweetness to balance the acidity of the balsamic. You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as an alternative for a different twist.
Vegetables: I love using colorful bell peppers and red onion. Feel free to substitute with any veggies you have on hand, like zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus. Mix it up!
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can sometimes lead to dryness, but there are tricks to keep it juicy! First, don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) only. This prevents the chicken from getting tough.
- Start by searing the chicken in the skillet to lock in moisture before baking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly juicy balsamic chicken every time!
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 baby spinach (optional)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal will take you about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook in the oven. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This will add flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking each side until golden brown, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. The aroma will be fantastic!
5. Add Balsamic Mixture:
Next, pour in the balsamic vinegar and add honey (or brown sugar) along with the dried Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and bring it to a light simmer.
6. Return Chicken to the Skillet:
Carefully nestle the chicken breasts back into the skillet among the colorful veggie mix. This will allow the chicken to soak up those delicious flavors.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Optional Spinach Addition:
If you’re using baby spinach, sprinkle it over the mix in the last 2 minutes of baking, allowing it to wilt perfectly.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve hot. Enjoy your easy one-pan balsamic chicken dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, so feel free to substitute them in equal quantities.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinade the night before. Just store the chicken individually wrapped or in a sealed container in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply proceed with the searing and baking steps as usual!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover balsamic chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of balsamic vinegar to freshen up the flavors!
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This one-pan meal is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it over cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad would complement the dish beautifully, too!
