This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a simple and tasty meal. Juicy chicken is cooked with colorful veggies and drizzled with a zesty balsamic sauce!
It’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze! I love how the chicken soaks up the sweet and tangy flavors. Perfect for busy nights when I want something quick yet delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use chicken thighs instead, which will add more flavor and remain juicy. Other proteins like turkey or even firm tofu can work too.
Balsamic Vinegar: The star of this dish, balsamic vinegar adds sweetness and tang. If you need a substitute, you can use apple cider vinegar mixed with a little sugar or honey to mimic the flavor. Just be mindful of the difference in acidity.
Bell Peppers: Fresh bell peppers add color and sweetness. If you don’t have these, zucchini or broccoli would make great substitutes. You could also use frozen mixed veggies if that’s what you have on hand—just thaw them before adding.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal for its strong aroma. However, if you’re out of fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon equals a clove). Always adjust to taste, since the powder is more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy While Baking?
To keep your chicken juicy, the key is not to overcook it. The initial searing helps seal in moisture and gives a nice flavor. Here’s how to do it successfully:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps get a good sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Aim for 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This step allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat.
These simple practices help ensure your chicken remains tender and delicious!
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and 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
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful one-pan meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for a tasty weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for your chicken once you prepare everything else!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and sprinkle them with salt and black pepper on both sides. This adds flavor to the chicken before cooking!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and let them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the veggies for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften. This step will bring out their wonderful flavors!
5. Prepare the Balsamic Sauce:
Add the cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), dried oregano, and basil to the skillet. Stir everything together well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.
6. Combine Chicken and Vegetables:
Now, return the seared chicken breasts back to the skillet. Nestle them among the veggies and sauce, ensuring they’re covered in that yummy mix!
7. Bake:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake everything for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Garnish and Serve:
Take out the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a moment. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, and serve warm. Enjoy your lovely dinner with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up that delicious balsamic sauce!
Can I Substitute the Chicken Breasts with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, turkey breasts, or even firm tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative. Just adjust the cooking times as needed based on the protein you choose.
How Can I Store Leftovers from This Dish?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Use Instead of Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar or honey can work as a substitute. You’ll still get a nice balance of tang and sweetness in your dish!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the baking instructions, adjusting the time if it’s coming straight from the fridge!
