One-Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe | Easy & Healthy Dinner

If you're looking for a recipe that's as quick and easy as it is delicious, you've come to the right place. This One-Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner solution for busy families, home cooks, and healthy eaters alike. Forget the hassle of juggling multiple pots and pans, and say hello to a simple, flavorful dish that will become a family favorite in no time.

With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a tangy balsamic glaze, this recipe satisfies your taste buds without leaving a pile of dirty dishes. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal.

Here’s everything you need to know to whip up this delightful dish, all in one pan.

Why One-Pan Meals Are a Game-Changer

Whether you’re managing hectic schedules or just looking to streamline your cooking, one-pan recipes are a lifesaver. Here’s why:

• Saves Time: Both cooking and cleaning up are faster with fewer dishes.
• Healthy and Balanced: Combine a lean protein source, fresh vegetables, and delicious seasoning for a well-rounded meal.
• Infuses Flavor: Cooking everything in one pan allows flavors to blend beautifully, creating rich, cohesive dishes.

This One-Pan Balsamic Chicken hits all these marks, making it a go-to for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life. The best part? Most of these are pantry staples!

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Veggies:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow squash or zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges

For the Balsamic Glaze:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley

Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. If you have asparagus, carrots, or green beans on hand, feel free to throw them in. This recipe is flexible enough for whatever ingredients your fridge has to offer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While waiting, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This ensures a well-seasoned bite every time.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Prep the Veggies

Add your chopped vegetables to the same pan, arranging them into an even layer. Drizzle with a little olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss them in the pan to coat them in the oil and pan drippings for added flavor.

Step 4: Make the Balsamic Glaze

Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Pour half of this mixture over the veggies and toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the veggies. Drizzle the remaining balsamic glaze over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from the oven and garnish the dish with freshly chopped basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this One-Pan Balsamic Chicken should become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation:

• Minimal Cleanup: Because everything is cooked in one pan, cleaning up is a breeze. No need to scrub multiple pots and pans after a long day.
• Balanced Nutrition: You get lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and a hint of sweetness from the honey or maple syrup—perfect for a healthy meal.
• Bold Flavors: The balsamic glaze adds a tangy and slightly sweet kick that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
• Customizable: You can easily swap veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your preferences.

Tips for Success

To make the most of this recipe, keep these tips in mind:

• Cut Vegetables Evenly: This ensures they cook evenly and are done at the same time as the chicken.
• Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the chicken before baking locks in moisture and adds a delicious golden crust.
• Adjust Sweetness If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the honey or maple syrup slightly.

Make It Your Own

Looking to experiment? Here are a few variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze.
• Cheesy Option: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top before baking.
• Vegan Version: Swap the chicken for baked tofu or chickpeas and use a plant-based glaze.

Bring More Deliciousness Into Your Kitchen

This One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is more than a meal; it’s a dinner solution crafted for busy lives without compromising on flavor or nutrition. It’s proof that a wholesome, home-cooked dinner can be both simple and delicious.

Why stop here? Discover more easy and delicious recipes on our blog, and transform your weekday meals into something special.

Happy cooking!