One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a dish that effortlessly combines simplicity and sophistication. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something flavorful yet easy to prepare. The star of this dish, chicken, is marinated in a tangy balsamic vinegar mixture that infuses every bite with a rich, savory flavor. As it cooks, the chicken releases its juices, creating a delicious sauce that coats everything in the pan. The addition of vibrant vegetables enhances not only the taste but also the visual appeal, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Best of all, this dish is prepared in just one pan, minimizing cleanup time while maximizing flavor. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends, One Pan Balsamic Chicken is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and taste. First, the one-pan preparation means you can enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. All the ingredients come together in harmony, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Second, the balsamic marinade is incredibly versatile. It not only adds a tangy sweetness but also helps to tenderize the chicken, resulting in juicy meat that is bursting with flavor. Third, the vibrant colors of the vegetables mixed with the chicken create an eye-catching presentation that will make your meal feel special, even on a busy weeknight. Finally, this dish is easy to customize. You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, making it a recipe you will want to return to time and time again.

Ingredients:

To prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds) – Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor. Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, making them an excellent choice for this recipe.
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar – This gives the dish its distinctive tangy flavor. Balsamic vinegar is rich in flavor and adds depth to the marinade.

1/4 cup olive oil – Use extra virgin for a robust taste. Olive oil not only helps in marinating but also aids in achieving a lovely sear on the chicken.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds an aromatic quality that enhances the overall flavor profile. Ensure to chop the garlic finely to maximize its essence.
2 tablespoons honey – Honey balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the dish perfectly.

1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano contributes an earthy flavor that pairs well with the chicken and balsamic vinegar.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme adds a fragrant touch and works beautifully with both chicken and balsamic dressing.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

2 cups assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions are great choices) – Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables for added color and nutrition. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Fresh basil for garnish (optional) – Fresh herbs add a pop of color and a burst of freshness just before serving.

How To Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken?

Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious One Pan Balsamic Chicken:

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This marinade will infuse the chicken with flavor and keep it moist during cooking.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable bag. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more robust flavor.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help the chicken cook evenly while ensuring the vegetables roast perfectly.
Prepare the Pan: Take a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish and place it on the stove over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Once heated, carefully place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet, reserving the marinade for later.
Sear the Chicken: Sear the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in the flavors and helps create a beautiful crust.

Add the Vegetables: While the chicken is searing, chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Once the chicken is nicely browned, add the vegetables around the chicken in the skillet. Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is coated.
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or served with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips For Variations:

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is inherently versatile, making it easy to adapt based on your personal preferences and what you have on hand. Here are some unique ideas for variations:

Change Up the Proteins: While chicken is the star of this dish, you can easily switch to boneless, skinless turkey breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for tofu, which may need less time.
Explore Different Marinades: If you want to switch up the flavor profile, consider using citrus juices such as lemon or orange in place of balsamic vinegar. You can also experiment with soy sauce or a teriyaki glaze for an Asian twist.

Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Depending on the season, feel free to include a variety of vegetables. Seasonal favorites such as asparagus, broccoli, or mushrooms can add new textures and flavors to the dish.
Add Cheese: For a rich finish, sprinkle some crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top before serving. The creaminess of the cheese pairs beautifully with the tangy balsamic sauce.
Use Fresh Herbs: In addition to basil, consider adding fresh rosemary or parsley for an aromatic touch. Herbs can elevate the dish, making it even more flavorful.

Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade or toss in some sliced jalapeños with the vegetables. This will give the dish a delightful kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
Budget-Friendly Options: If you are looking to save, consider using frozen vegetables. They are often just as nutritious and can be a cost-effective alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as frozen vegetables may release more moisture.

Serving Suggestions:

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can be enhanced with the right serving suggestions. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Serve Over a Bed of Grains: For a hearty meal, serve the chicken and vegetables over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or couscous. The grains will soak up the delicious balsamic sauce, making every bite flavorful.
Pair with a Fresh Salad: A crisp salad can complement the richness of the chicken. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a Mediterranean salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives for a refreshing contrast.

Accompany with Crusty Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread on the side to soak up the leftover balsamic sauce. This adds a rustic touch and makes for a satisfying meal.
Offer a Variety of Dips: Create a small platter with dips like hummus or tzatziki. These can serve as a delightful appetizer before your main dish, allowing guests to nibble while waiting for the meal.
Garnish Creatively: Use edible flowers or additional herbs as garnishes when serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the presentation, making the dish more visually appealing.

Include Seasonal Sides: Depending on the time of year, consider serving seasonal sides such as roasted sweet potatoes or grilled corn on the cob. These can add a delightful contrast to the meal.

FAQ:

Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance. Prepare the marinade and coat the chicken, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?

For a different flavor profile, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preferences.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it is safe to eat.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While it is best to use fresh chicken, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and cooking for even cooking results.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner that combines marinated chicken with vibrant vegetables, all cooked in one pan.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Oven-safe skillet

Ingredients

Chicken

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor.

Marinade

1/2 cup balsamic vinegar Adds a distinctive tangy flavor.
1/4 cup olive oil Use extra virgin for a robust taste.
3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor.

2 tablespoons honey Balances the acidity of the balsamic vinegar.
1 teaspoon dried oregano Contributes an earthy flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme Adds a fragrant touch.

to taste salt and pepper Essential seasonings to enhance flavor.

Vegetables

2 cups assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, red onions) Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables.
to taste fresh basil for garnish Optional, adds freshness.

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to prepare the marinade.
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet.
Sear the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Add the chopped vegetables around the chicken in the skillet and pour the reserved marinade over everything.

Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.