Are you looking for a delicious, hassle-free dinner option? Look no further than this One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe! This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a tangy balsamic glaze and fresh vegetables, all cooked together in just one pan. Not only does it simplify cleanup, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as everything cooks together. In around 30 minutes, you can serve up a delightful meal that will impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing for a casual weeknight dinner or an intimate gathering, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from fresh ingredients like bell peppers and onions. Ready to discover how simple it is to make this flavorful dish? Let’s dive right into the details!
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 Bell Peppers: Choose a combination of colors for visual appeal; they add sweetness and texture
- Red Onion: Sliced red onion provides a mild bite; feel free to substitute with yellow onion if preferred
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor; finely chopped or minced works best
For the Sauce:
- Balsamic Vinegar: Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for a rich flavor that complements the chicken perfectly
- Honey: This adds sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar; adjust based on your preference
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while enhancing umami flavors in the dish
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 your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Season both sides of the boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This adds essential flavor to your main protein.
Step 4: Chop Vegetables
Slice your bell peppers and red onion into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly in the oven alongside the chicken.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Whisk until well mixed; this will be your flavorful glaze.
Step 6: Assemble Everything
Place seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish along with chopped vegetables. Drizzle your sauce over everything evenly.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra 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, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for up to 24 hours before cooking. This enhances flavor and tenderness. Prepare vegetables like bell peppers and onions a day in advance as well.
- Storing: Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave on medium power for about 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Suggestions for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Choose the Right Chicken Cut
One common mistake when preparing One Pan Balsamic Chicken is selecting the wrong cut of chicken. Using chicken breast can lead to dryness, as it cooks faster than other parts. Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a juicier result. These cuts not only retain moisture better but also absorb the balsamic glaze’s flavors more effectively. Make sure to trim excess fat to avoid greasy results while still ensuring enough fat for flavor and moisture. Choosing the right chicken cut is crucial for achieving that delectable taste and texture.
Overcrowding the Pan
Another frequent error in making One Pan Balsamic Chicken is overcrowding the pan. When you place too much chicken in one pan, it lowers the temperature and creates steam instead of allowing a nice sear. This leads to uneven cooking and less caramelization, which affects flavor. To achieve that beautifully browned exterior, cook in batches if necessary or use a larger pan. Ensuring proper space between each piece allows heat to circulate evenly, enhancing both the visual appeal and taste of your dish.
Ignoring Marination Time
Failing to marinate your chicken long enough can diminish the flavor of One Pan Balsamic Chicken. While marinating for just 30 minutes will impart some taste, letting it sit for several hours or even overnight will maximize flavor absorption. The balsamic vinegar not only adds tanginess but also helps tenderize the meat. If you’re short on time, consider prepping this dish in advance so that you can let it marinate longer before cooking. Patience in marination pays off with an explosion of flavor in each bite.
Skipping Fresh Herbs
Many people overlook the importance of fresh herbs when making One Pan Balsamic Chicken. Dried herbs may seem like a convenient substitute, but they lack the vibrant flavor profile fresh herbs offer. Consider using basil or parsley as finishing touches to enhance both taste and presentation. Simply chop them finely and sprinkle over your dish just before serving to add freshness and color. Neglecting this step can result in a flat-tasting meal that doesn’t showcase all the delightful flavors this recipe has to offer.
FAQs
What can I serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
When considering what to serve with One Pan Balsamic Chicken, think about sides that complement its rich flavors. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots pair beautifully with this dish, enhancing both nutrition and taste. You could also serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice to soak up the balsamic sauce. A light salad with mixed greens dressed lightly with olive oil balances well against the savory chicken, creating a satisfying meal experience that appeals to various palates.
Can I make One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare One Pan Balsamic Chicken ahead of time! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the refrigerator after cooking. Simply let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge or even longer if frozen. Reheating should be done gently in the oven or stovetop to maintain moisture and flavor integrity when you’re ready to enjoy your delicious meal again.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! While One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a favorite, you can easily adapt this recipe using other proteins like pork chops or tofu for a vegetarian option. Each alternative will bring its unique texture and flavor profile but keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary significantly from chicken’s requirements. Adjust seasoning levels accordingly since different proteins absorb flavors differently; however, maintaining that signature balsamic base will ensure delicious results regardless of your choice.
How do I store leftovers from One Pan Balsamic Chicken?
To properly store leftovers from One Pan Balsamic Chicken, allow them to cool down completely before refrigerating. Use an airtight container to keep your meal fresh and prevent odors from affecting other foods in your fridge. Properly stored leftovers can last up to three days when refrigerated or up to three months if frozen. When reheating, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or broth to restore moisture and refresh flavors before serving again.
Conclusion for One Pan Balsamic Chicken
In conclusion, mastering One Pan Balsamic Chicken involves understanding key techniques such as selecting the right cut of meat, preventing overcrowding in your pan, allowing adequate marination time, and incorporating fresh herbs for optimal flavor enhancement. By avoiding common mistakes like these, you’ll create a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also rich in taste and texture. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy this flavorful journey by refining these steps every time you cook!

One Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a flavorful and effortless dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, colorful bell peppers, and sweet red onions, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this one-pan meal simplifies prep and cleanup, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully in the oven. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a nutritious dinner that’s both impressive and customizable. The vibrant vegetables not only enhance the dish’s appeal but also add essential nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe guarantees delicious results every time.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 fresh bell peppers (any color)
- 1 medium red onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Chop bell peppers and red onion into uniform pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- Place seasoned chicken in the baking dish and add chopped vegetables.
- Drizzle the sauce over everything evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg