Introduction

One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful recipe that brings together tender chicken breasts with the rich flavor of balsamic vinegar, sweet vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be made in just one pan, cutting down on cleanup time while still delivering a delicious and satisfying meal.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breasts – 4 pieces
Balsamic vinegar – 1/4 cup
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Honey – 2 tablespoons
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Thyme – 1 teaspoon, dried
Cherry tomatoes – 2 cups
Zucchini – 1 medium, sliced
Red onion – 1 medium, sliced

Prep Time

The preparation time for this dish is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering all ingredients, chopping vegetables, and marinating the chicken.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for One Pan Balsamic Chicken is about 25 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend around 40 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it an ideal choice for families or small gatherings.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for cooking the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Balsamic Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic until well combined.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet around the chicken. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken and vegetables.

Step 6: Bake in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 7: Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken and vegetables warm, drizzling any remaining balsamic sauce on top.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences. Zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes can make great additions.

Cooking Method

If you prefer, this recipe can also be made on the stovetop alone, cooking the chicken and veggies until tender without transferring to the oven.

Ingredient Quality

Using high-quality balsamic vinegar and fresh ingredients will significantly enhance the flavors of the dish.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating the chicken in balsamic vinegar enhances its flavor and tenderness. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, for best results.

Searing

Searing the chicken in a hot skillet creates a flavorful crust. Ensure the pan is adequately heated before adding the chicken to achieve a golden-brown color.

Deglazing

After removing the chicken, deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar. This process lifts the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan, enriching the sauce.

One-Pan Cooking

One-pan cooking simplifies the process and minimizes cleanup. Combine all ingredients in the same pan, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while cooking.

Resting

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender result.

FAQ

Can I use other types of vinegar instead of balsamic?

Yes, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor profile will be different.

How can I ensure the chicken cooks evenly?

Pound the chicken to an even thickness before cooking, or use chicken thighs, which tend to cook more evenly.

Can I use vegetables with the chicken?

Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus can be added to the pan for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish holds up well for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for several days.

What sides pair well with balsamic chicken?

Consider serving it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad to complement the flavors.

Conclusion

The One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delightful and convenient dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables, all infused with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a satisfying and flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.

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