If you’re looking for a meal that combines convenience with flavor, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken is the answer. Not only does it require minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pan method, but it also bursts with tangy sweetness from the balsamic vinegar. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. With tender chicken breasts marinated in a savory sauce and accompanied by vibrant vegetables, you’ll enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and visually appealing. In just about 30 minutes, you can serve up this delicious dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your taste preferences or what you have in your pantry. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and manageable, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- Balsamic Vinegar: Opt for high-quality balsamic vinegar to enhance the overall taste of the dish
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for better flavor and health benefits
- Vegetables (e.g., Bell Peppers and Broccoli): Select your favorite seasonal vegetables to add color and nutrition
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
- Brown Sugar: This will balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar with a touch of sweetness
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a large baking dish or sheet pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and brown sugar. Whisk until well blended.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over them. Seal or cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 4: Arrange Vegetables
While the chicken marinates, chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Spread them evenly on the prepared baking pan.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Remove chicken from marinade and place on top of vegetables in the baking pan. Drizzle remaining marinade over everything.
Step 6: Bake Until Done
Bake in preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs up to 24 hours in advance. This enhances the flavor and saves time on cooking day. Store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Storing: Leftover One Pan Balsamic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Make sure to label your containers with dates for easy tracking.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to maintain moisture.
Suggestions for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial when preparing One Pan Balsamic Chicken. Fresh herbs, vegetables, and chicken enhance flavor and texture significantly. If you opt for frozen or canned items, you might compromise the dish’s overall taste. Fresh produce not only contributes to the vibrant colors of the meal but also ensures that your chicken remains juicy and tender during cooking. Always check for freshness before purchasing your ingredients to guarantee a delicious outcome.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
When making One Pan Balsamic Chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. If too many ingredients are crammed together, they will steam rather than brown properly. This can lead to a mushy texture instead of the desirable caramelization. To achieve that perfect golden color and rich flavor, cook in batches if necessary. Ensuring adequate space between ingredients allows heat to circulate evenly, resulting in a beautifully cooked dish.
Skip the Pre-cooking Marinade
While marinating chicken enhances flavor, for this recipe, it’s best to skip an extensive pre-cooking marinade. Instead of soaking the chicken for hours beforehand, simply season it with salt and pepper right before cooking. This method helps maintain the meat’s natural juices without overwhelming it with too many flavors at once. You can add balsamic vinegar during cooking to impart that rich tangy flavor without compromising texture or moisture.
Monitor Cooking Time
Pay close attention to cooking time when preparing One Pan Balsamic Chicken. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken breasts that lack flavor and tenderness. Generally, chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is an excellent way to ensure doneness without guessing. Remove the chicken from heat once it’s done and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing; this helps retain moisture.
FAQs
What is One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines succulent chicken breasts with vibrant vegetables, all cooked in one pan with balsamic vinegar. The key to its deliciousness lies in the balance of sweet and tangy flavors from the balsamic reduction paired with fresh herbs. It’s quick to prepare and minimizes cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! One Pan Balsamic Chicken is versatile when it comes to vegetables. Feel free to use seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus according to your preference. Just ensure that the vegetables you choose have similar cooking times as your chicken so everything cooks evenly together. Mixing different colors not only makes your dish more visually appealing but also adds various nutrients.
Is One Pan Balsamic Chicken healthy?
Absolutely! One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a healthy option packed with protein from the chicken and essential vitamins from the vegetables. The use of balsamic vinegar adds minimal calories while providing robust flavor without excessive fat or sugar found in heavier sauces or dressings. Additionally, using lean cuts of chicken helps keep this dish nutritious while being satisfying.
How do I store leftovers of One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
Leftover One Pan Balsamic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid or damp paper towel to retain moisture during heating. If you prefer reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth while warming over low heat to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also offers incredible flavors through simple ingredients cooked harmoniously together. By following essential tips like using fresh ingredients and monitoring cooking time, you can avoid common pitfalls that may affect your meal’s quality. Don’t forget about incorporating seasonal vegetables and ensuring proper storage techniques for leftovers! With these guidelines in mind, you’ll create a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion while keeping cleanup minimal—an absolute win in any kitchen! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this deliciously tangy recipe!

One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a flavorful and easy dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts and vibrant vegetables, all cooked in a single pan for minimal cleanup. This recipe features a tangy marinade made from high-quality balsamic vinegar, garlic, and soy sauce, creating an irresistible glaze that enhances the dish’s taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this one-pan wonder can be customized with your favorite seasonal veggies, making every meal a delightful experience. With just 30 minutes from preparation to table, you’ll enjoy a wholesome meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Seasonal vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and brown sugar to create the marinade.
- Marinate the chicken in half of the mixture for at least 15 minutes.
- Chop vegetables and spread them evenly on the prepared baking pan.
- Place marinated chicken on top of the vegetables and drizzle with remaining marinade.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with vegetables
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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