If you’re craving a meal that brings together savory, tangy, and sweet flavors all in one dish, you’re going to fall absolutely in love with this One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe. It’s a vibrant, wholesome dinner that’s as simple to make as it is delightful to eat, featuring juicy chicken breasts bathed in a luscious balsamic glaze, paired with fresh vegetables that roast to tender perfection. This recipe has quickly become a personal favorite for its minimal fuss, maximum flavor, and the ease of cooking everything in just one pan—making both the cooking and cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe lies not only in how easy it is to prepare but also in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in flavor and texture. From the sweetness of honey to the zing of balsamic vinegar, every item on this list adds depth and brightness to the dish.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These give you lean protein that cooks up juicy and tender with the balsamic glaze.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sear the chicken beautifully and adds richness to the vegetables.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Brings bursts of sweetness and vibrant color to the pan.
- 1 cup green beans (trimmed): Adds a lovely crunch and fresh veggie goodness with every bite.
- 1/2 red onion (sliced): Offers a subtle sweetness and depth as it softens while roasting.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with fragrant, savory depth that complements the balsamic.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: The star ingredient, delivering tangy, slightly sweet notes that elevate the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Balances the acidity of the vinegar with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Adds herby flavors reminiscent of a cozy Italian kitchen.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A lovely fresh finish that adds an aromatic punch.
How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze
Start by whisking together the balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This mixture will be the heart of your glaze, bursting with a perfect harmony of sweet and tangy flavors that will coat your chicken and vegetables beautifully.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This step locks in juices and adds a delightful texture contrast. Once seared, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the green beans, red onion slices, and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté these for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the onions to soften slightly and the tomatoes to release their sweet essence. This step harmonizes the flavors while preparing the vegetables to roast to perfection.
Step 4: Combine and Roast
Place the seared chicken breasts neatly on top of the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Pour your prepared balsamic glaze evenly over the chicken and vegetables, making sure every piece gets a lovely coating. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F oven and bake everything for 15 to 18 minutes. The chicken is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, juicy and infused with rich flavor.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Before serving, spoon any remaining balsamic glaze over the chicken for an extra glossy, flavorful finish. If you have fresh basil on hand, sprinkle it over the top for a fragrant, colorful garnish that brightens the dish.
How to Serve One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are my top pick to garnish this dish. Their peppery, slightly sweet aroma complements the balsamic glaze perfectly and adds a pretty pop of green. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or some lemon zest can also bring a fresh twist to the final presentation.
Side Dishes
Though this dish is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with some fluffy quinoa, creamy mashed potatoes, or even garlic bread takes it to another level for heartier appetites. Simple side salads with lemon vinaigrette also balance the richness of the balsamic chicken beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe family-style right from the skillet to keep it casual and cozy. For a more elegant touch, plate the chicken breasts on a bed of roasted vegetables, drizzling extra balsamic glaze over the top and arranging fresh basil leaves artfully to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The balsamic glaze will infuse further into the chicken and vegetables, making for even tastier meals if you’re lucky enough to have some left!
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to enjoy it later. Simply cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through to maintain that perfect texture. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in covered dishes, but be cautious not to dry out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or extra balsamic glaze before reheating helps keep everything moist.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe?
Yes! Just keep in mind bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time to reach the safe internal temperature. Adjust the baking time accordingly and consider using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
No worries! Grape tomatoes or even chopped regular tomatoes work just fine. They will add similar sweetness and moisture to the dish.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely, this One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check that your balsamic vinegar and seasonings have no hidden gluten ingredients.
How do I thicken the balsamic glaze?
If you prefer a thicker glaze, simply simmer the balsamic mixture on the stovetop over low heat until it reduces and thickens to your liking before pouring it over the chicken and vegetables.
Can I swap out the vegetables?
Definitely! Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make excellent substitutes or additions. Choose whatever is fresh and in season for your best results.
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that feels special every time. It’s quick, delicious, and loaded with fresh, vibrant flavors that will delight your taste buds and bring a smile to your dinner table. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your go-to recipes, just like it is for me!
Print
One Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One Pan Balsamic Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and easy-to-make healthy dinner featuring tender chicken breasts baked with fresh vegetables and a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it combines savory herbs, garlic, and honey for a deliciously balanced dish that’s both satisfying and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
Garnish
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors meld.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking the chicken and vegetables together.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear each breast for 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add green beans, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté them for 2–3 minutes to soften and develop flavor while absorbing the pan juices.
- Combine and Add Glaze: Nestle the seared chicken breasts back on top of the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Pour the prepared balsamic vinegar mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Bake in the Oven: Place the skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is cooked through and juicy.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven. Spoon any balsamic glaze pooled in the pan over the chicken breasts. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute asparagus or zucchini in place of the green beans for variation.
- For a thicker balsamic glaze, simmer the balsamic vinegar mixture on the stovetop until it reduces slightly before pouring it over the chicken.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to simplify the cooking process by searing and baking in the same pan.
- Ensure the chicken reaches the recommended internal temperature to guarantee food safety.
