Oh, let me tell you about my all-time favorite dish: One Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it perfectly embodies the essence of effortless cooking. I remember a busy weeknight when I wanted something healthy yet delicious, and this dish came to the rescue. The sweet tanginess of the balsamic vinegar combined with tender chicken and colorful vegetables creates a meal that feels fancy yet is so easy to prepare. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze—all thanks to just one pan!
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, and the chicken comes out so juicy and flavorful that you’ll be coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Stick around; I’ll share all my tips and tricks to make this a meal you’ll want to repeat.
What’s in One Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies?
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! I typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they are lean and cook evenly. If you’re feeling adventurous, bone-in thighs would work too, giving you extra flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient gives that signature tangy sweetness that ties everything together. I love using a quality balsamic for the best flavor—go for one that’s thick and glossy!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil enhances the flavors and keeps everything moist. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
Vegetables: I like to use a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli, but honestly, any veggies will do! This is a great recipe for using up odds and ends from your fridge.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds that delicious aroma and depth of flavor. Because who doesn’t love a garlicky dish?
Honey or Maple Syrup: Just a touch of sweetness balances the balsamic’s acidity; I usually reach for honey but maple syrup also works if that’s what you have on hand!
Seasonings: Italian seasoning is my go-to, along with salt and pepper to taste. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be thrown in for a pop of color and flavor at the end.
Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is packed with lean protein from the chicken, which is great for muscle repair and growth. The colorful vegetables provide a variety of vitamins and minerals to keep you energized and healthy.
Chicken: A fantastic source of protein, it helps in maintaining muscle mass while keeping your meals low in fat if you choose chicken breast.
Vegetables: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, they contribute to heart health and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
However, it’s always wise to keep an eye on serving sizes, especially if you’re watching your caloric intake. Enjoying this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet is key. My favorite part? You can make it as fresh and wholesome as you like!
Ingredients List
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
– 1 cup of balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2-3 cups of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
*Serves 4*
How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help to ensure everything cooks evenly and gets that lovely caramelization!
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl, pour half of the balsamic mixture over them, and let them marinate for about 15 minutes if you have time. If you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step!
4. On a large baking sheet, add the mixed vegetables. Drizzle them with the remaining balsamic mixture. Toss the veggies to coat them well.
5. Nestle the marinated chicken breasts among the vegetables on the pan.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender and caramelized.
7. Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes to lock in all those juicy flavors. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if you like before serving!
Customizations and Extra Tips
Feel free to play around with this recipe! Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein. You can also vary the veggies based on the season; asparagus or carrots work beautifully.
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight before cooking. Trust me, the more time to soak in those flavors, the better!
Since everything cooks in one pan, you can spend time enjoying with family or friends. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or even when you have guests over. Just add a crusty loaf of bread, and you’ve got a delightful meal!
I hope you give this One Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies a shot! Honestly, you’ll love the ease, the flavor, and just how beautiful it looks on your dinner table. Please let me know how it turns out, and don’t be shy to share your variations or any memories tied to this dish—I’d love to hear all about them! Happy cooking!
