One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked in a tangy balsamic glaze with fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together in one pan, minimizing cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. The combination of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and honey creates a rich, caramelized sauce that pairs beautifully with tender chicken and roasted veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes
- One-pan meal – less mess and simple cleanup
- Packed with flavor – a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze
- Healthy and nutritious – loaded with lean protein and vegetables
- Customizable – works with different vegetables and seasonings
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Balsamic vinegar
- Olive oil
- Honey
- Garlic
- Cherry tomatoes
- Bell peppers
- Red onion
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Make the balsamic glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same pan, add chopped bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Combine and simmer: Return the chicken to the pan and pour the balsamic glaze over everything. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheesy Option: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan before serving.
- Different Proteins: Use shrimp, tofu, or salmon instead of chicken.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus for more nutrients.
- Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or a bed of spinach instead of pasta.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and work well in this recipe.
What should I serve with balsamic chicken?
Serve with rice, quinoa, pasta, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Can I make this in the oven?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, adding the balsamic glaze in the last 10 minutes.
Can I use a different vinegar?
Balsamic vinegar gives the best flavor, but red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used in a pinch.
How do I prevent the balsamic glaze from burning?
Simmer over medium-low heat and stir frequently to avoid burning.
Can I marinate the chicken in the balsamic sauce?
Yes! Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check any store-bought seasonings.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil instead of fresh, or swap with oregano or thyme.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Let it simmer longer, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
Conclusion
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is a delicious, easy, and healthy meal perfect for any night of the week. With minimal ingredients and cleanup, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with homemade simplicity. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a satisfying meal with a tangy balsamic twist!
Print
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, One-Pan Meal
- Method: Skillet, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken is a flavorful and easy dish featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked in a tangy balsamic glaze with fresh vegetables. This quick, healthy, and mess-free meal is perfect for busy weeknights, combining lean protein, vibrant veggies, and a sweet-savory sauce in just one pan.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- ½ red onion, sliced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken – Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Make the balsamic glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Sear the chicken – Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables – In the same pan, add bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Combine and simmer – Return the chicken to the pan and pour the balsamic glaze over everything. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Garnish and serve – Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve warm with your favorite side dish.
Notes
- For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- For a cheesy option, sprinkle mozzarella or Parmesan before serving.
- For meal prep, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).
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