This One Pan Balsamic Chicken is super simple and packed with flavor! Juicy chicken is cooked with colorful veggies, all coated in a tasty balsamic sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean and easy to cook. If you want to use thighs, they’ll bring more flavor and tenderness, making a great alternative.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for that rich, tangy flavor. If you’re out of balsamic, you could try red wine vinegar mixed with a little sugar for sweetness.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity. If you prefer, maple syrup works well too and gives a unique flavor.
Vegetables: Red and yellow bell peppers add color and sweetness. Feel free to use any veggies you like, such as zucchini, broccoli, or even spinach for extra nutrition.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right is crucial! Here’s how to avoid dry chicken:
- First, sear the chicken until golden brown. This helps lock in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is the magic number!
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices in.
Remember, cooking times can vary based on thickness, so adjust as needed!
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful One Pan Balsamic Chicken will take approximately 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t require much time but results in a flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them until they are golden brown—about 4-5 minutes on each side. After browning, remove the chicken from the pan and place it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, the red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until they begin to soften. The colors will brighten and the garlic will become fragrant!
4. Make the Balsamic Sauce:
While the veggies are cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), and dried thyme. This will create a delicious sauce to coat the chicken and veggies.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the seared chicken breasts back to the skillet and pour the balsamic sauce over the top, ensuring everything is well-coated.
6. Simmer:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for an additional 8-10 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken slightly.
7. Final Touches:
Once the chicken is cooked through (165°F is the safe temperature), remove the lid and let it simmer for another 2 minutes if you want to thicken the sauce a bit more.
8. Serve:
Garnish your dish with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, easy one pan balsamic chicken!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe. If using frozen chicken, make sure it’s completely thawed in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before cooking to ensure even and proper cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar mixed with a teaspoon of sugar for sweetness. While the flavor will differ slightly, it will still add a nice tang to the dish.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any other veggies you like, such as zucchini, asparagus, or spinach. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the vegetables used.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep everything moist during reheating.
