One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be satisfying. When you’re short on time but still want something wholesome and delicious, One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a go-to recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. This recipe combines juicy chicken with colorful roasted vegetables and a sweet-savory balsamic glaze, all cooked together in one pan. It’s the perfect solution for weeknights when you need something fast, nourishing, and easy to clean up.

Why One Pan Balsamic Chicken Works

What makes this dish so great is its versatility and simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated cooking techniques. The balsamic marinade does all the heavy lifting, infusing the chicken and vegetables with a rich, tangy flavor that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a healthy dinner idea, this one-pan meal covers all the bases. It’s balanced, loaded with nutrients, and leaves behind just one dish to wash.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4)

Here’s exactly what you’ll need to recreate this delicious recipe at home:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 zucchini, sliced into half moons
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

✅ Tip: Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have on hand like mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots.

How to Make One Pan Balsamic Chicken – Step-by-Step

🔹 1. Create the Marinade

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp thyme or basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Reserve about 2 tablespoons of this mixture to drizzle on at the end.

🔹 2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over them and coat evenly. Let the chicken sit for at least 20 minutes. If you have more time, refrigerate for 1–2 hours for deeper flavor.

🔹 3. Prepare the Vegetables

Chop all your vegetables and arrange them on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.

🔹 4. Assemble the Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts in the center of the pan and spread the veggies around them. Pour the remaining marinade from the bag over everything.

🔹 5. Bake

Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C). The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.

🔹 6. Optional: Broil for Finish

For a richer glaze, switch to broil for the last 3–4 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

🔹 7. Serve

Drizzle the reserved marinade over everything, garnish with chopped herbs, and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

This dish stands alone beautifully, but you can pair it with a few extras if you’d like:

• Over a bed of quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes
• Alongside garlic bread or a leafy green salad
• With a glass sparkling water with lemon

If you’re going low-carb, serve with cauliflower rice or roasted green beans.

Variations to Try

➤ Use Chicken Thighs

Prefer dark meat? Chicken thighs are juicy and rich. They take a bit longer to cook, so add 5 minutes to the baking time.

➤ Add Cheese

Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta on top during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.

➤ Try Different Veggies

Swap the veggies based on the season. Butternut squash and Brussels sprouts work well in fall, while asparagus and baby carrots are great for spring.

➤ Make It Spicy

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a subtle kick.

Health Benefits

Not only is this recipe easy, but it’s also packed with nutrients:

• Lean protein from chicken helps with muscle repair and keeps you full.
• Balsamic vinegar is low in calories and rich in antioxidants.
• Olive oil is heart-healthy and full of good fats.
• Colorful vegetables offer fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

It’s a smart meal choice for anyone trying to eat clean, reduce carbs, or build a sustainable healthy lifestyle.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Leftovers? No problem. Here’s how to store them:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked portions in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Microwave or reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or balsamic to keep it moist.

This dish is also meal prep-friendly. Make a big batch and divide it into lunch containers with a grain or extra veggies.

FAQs About One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Can I cook this in a skillet instead of the oven?

Yes! Use an oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan. Sear the chicken first, then add vegetables and transfer to the oven to finish cooking.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

You can use yellow mustard, honey mustard, or even skip it altogether—though Dijon adds a sharp depth of flavor.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

It’s better to use fresh vegetables so they don’t release too much water. If using frozen, roast them separately to avoid a soggy dish.

Is balsamic vinegar keto-friendly?

Yes, in moderation. While balsamic contains some natural sugar, the small amount in this recipe won’t break most low-carb diets.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Balsamic Chicken isn’t just convenient—it’s crave-worthy. With just a handful of pantry staples and one dish, you get a complete meal bursting with flavor, nutrition, and vibrant colors. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned home chef, this dish is a reliable go-to that never fails to impress.

So next time you’re thinking “what’s for dinner?” — skip the stress, grab a pan, and make One Pan Balsamic Chicken. It’s the kind of simple, healthy comfort food that will have everyone asking for seconds.

For more creative ideas, check out this Easy King Ranch Chicken Casserole Recipe.