This Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner is a breeze to make! It features tender chicken thighs cooked with bright veggies, all drizzled with sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
You won’t believe how simple it is! I love that everything cooks in one pan, making clean-up a snap. Plus, the flavors blend together so well that each bite is a tasty treat! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts instead, but keep an eye on the cooking time, as they can dry out more easily.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient adds a rich, tangy flavor. If you’re out of balsamic, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different taste.
Honey or Maple Syrup: I like using honey for sweetness, but maple syrup is a great alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option. You can also use brown sugar in a pinch.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow bell peppers add sweetness and color, but you can mix in green bell peppers or even zucchini if you want to vary the veggies.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, searing is key. Sear the chicken thighs in a hot pan to create a nice brown crust. This locks in moisture and flavor. Remember not to overcrowd the pan—this helps them brown evenly.
- Heat the olive oil before adding the chicken. This ensures a good sear.
- Once seared, don’t flip the chicken too soon. Let it brown for the full 4-5 minutes to develop flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—165°F (74°C) is the magic number for juicy chicken.
Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, and basil)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Balsamic Chicken Dinner will take about 10 minutes to prep, plus 15-20 minutes of cooking time in the oven. So, in about 30 minutes total, you will have a fantastic meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating, season your chicken thighs with salt and pepper, giving them a nice coating to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This gives your chicken a great depth of flavor!
3. Cook the Veggies:
After searing the chicken, carefully remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. In the same pan, add the sliced red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and dried Italian herbs. Pour this tasty mixture over the sautéed vegetables in the pan, stirring to combine everything well.
5. Combine and Bake:
Now, return the chicken thighs to the pan, placing them among the vegetables. Transfer the whole pan to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Spoon some of the delicious pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor. Garnish with your fresh chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm with your favorite sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. Enjoy your delightful meal!
FAQ for Easy One Pan Balsamic Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw chicken overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water. Make sure to pat it dry before searing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute the Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the bell peppers and onions with any veggies you have on hand. Zucchini, green beans, or broccoli would work well too. Just adjust the cooking times as needed based on the vegetables you choose!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little splash of chicken broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and veggies and keep them separate in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just sear and bake them when you’re ready to serve for optimal flavor and texture!
