This One Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies is a tasty and easy meal. Juicy chicken baked with colorful veggies soaked in tangy balsamic vinegar makes dinner a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs, or if you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet burst of flavor. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes can work just as well. You could also substitute with bell peppers for a different taste.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is light and healthy, but if you have frozen spinach, that will work too. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a tangy flavor. If you don’t have balsamic, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used as alternatives, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that aromatic boost, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove) can be used instead.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting chicken perfectly cooked can be tricky. The goal is tender, juicy chicken, and a few tips can help:
- Make sure to sear the chicken on medium-high heat for a nice golden-brown crust. This creates flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should read at least 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
By paying attention to these steps, you’ll have delicious, well-cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your meal without worry!
One Pan Balsamic Chicken and Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Veggies:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making a total of 40 minutes. If you can marinate the chicken overnight, it will be even tastier, but 15 minutes of marinating is enough to add great flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken cook perfectly while you prepare the other components.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, thinly sliced garlic, oregano, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together well to create a tasty marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and make sure they are fully coated in the marinade. Let them sit and soak up the flavors for at least 15 minutes. If you have time, letting them marinate overnight in the fridge is a great option!
4. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken breasts and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a lovely color and flavor!
5. Add the Tomatoes:
After searing, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the skillet. It’s okay if some tomatoes touch the chicken; they will soak up the flavor! You can also sprinkle a bit more salt and pepper over the tomatoes for extra seasoning.
6. Roast in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast everything for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. You can check with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Wilt the Spinach:
Once the chicken is cooked, take the skillet out of the oven. Stir in the fresh spinach and watch it wilt in just about 1-2 minutes. It adds a nice pop of color and nutrition!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the chicken and veggies to a platter, pouring any delicious pan juices over the top. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Now you’re ready to enjoy your one-pan meal—so tasty and satisfying!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap in your favorite veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may have varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly by adding them to the skillet at different stages to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or broth to keep everything moist.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Yes! For even more flavor, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just be careful not to exceed that time, as the acidity in the balsamic vinegar can begin to alter the chicken’s texture.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Just remember that these options are less sweet than balsamic, so you might want to add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the flavors!
