Name: ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Cooking spray (for greasing the pan); 6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (adds depth and tangy flavor); 1/2 cup zesty Italian dressing (provides a burst of flavor); 1-1/4 pounds chicken tenderloins or breasts (the protein base of the dish); 2 heads broccoli (fresh and crunchy, perfect for roasting); 1 cup baby carrots (sweet and colorful); 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes (juicy and bursting with flavor); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (enhances the overall flavor profile); 3 tablespoons olive oil (for added richness); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for a hint of savory goodness); 1 bunch fresh parsley (optional, for garnish); to taste salt and pepper (optional, to elevate the flavor)

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that brings together vibrant flavors, tender chicken, and a rainbow of veggies, all cooked in one pan. This ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies recipe is not only delicious but also an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll have a wholesome meal on the table that your whole family will love. Let’s dive into why this recipe is such a reliable go-to for dinner.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

The beauty of ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies lies in its simplicity. You can throw everything together and let the oven do the work. This recipe is reliable for several reasons:

– **Quick Preparation**: With minimal chopping and prep, you can have this dish ready in no time.
– **Easy Cleanup**: Cooking everything in one pan means less time spent washing dishes.
– **Flavorful and Healthy**: The balsamic vinegar and Italian dressing provide a zesty kick while keeping the meal light and nutritious.
– **Customizable**: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to fit your palate.

What Goes Into ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies

Creating this delectable dish requires just a few straightforward ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooking spray – For greasing the pan and preventing sticking.
6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – Adds depth and tangy flavor.
1/2 cup zesty Italian dressing – Provides a burst of flavor; fat-free options work wonderfully too.
1-1/4 pounds chicken tenderloins or breasts – The protein base of the dish.
2 heads broccoli – Fresh and crunchy, perfect for roasting.
1 cup baby carrots – Sweet and colorful, they add great texture.
1/2 pint cherry tomatoes – Juicy and bursting with flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
3 tablespoons olive oil – For added richness.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a hint of savory goodness.
Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color.
Salt and pepper (optional) – To taste, elevating the dish’s flavor.

Essential Tools for Success

To make your cooking experience as smooth as possible, gather these essential tools:

Large baking sheet – For roasting all the ingredients together.
Mixing bowl – To combine the chicken and marinade.
Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
Cooking spray – To prevent sticking on your baking sheet.

Cooking ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies: The Process

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s walk through the steps to prepare this fabulous dish.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken and veggies roast perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, zesty Italian dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins or breasts to the bowl and toss them in the marinade. Let the chicken soak up those flavors for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the veggies.

Step 4: Prepare the Veggies

While the chicken is marinating, cut the broccoli into florets and wash the baby carrots and cherry tomatoes. If the carrots are large, you may want to slice them in half for even cooking.

Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Once the chicken has marinated, arrange the chicken in the center of the prepared baking sheet. Surround it with the broccoli, baby carrots, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle any leftover marinade over the veggies for added flavor.

Step 6: Roast in the Oven

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. If you want a bit of caramelization, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy this ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies with your favorite side or on its own for a satisfying meal!

Ingredient Flex Options

Don’t hesitate to mix things up! Here are some ingredient flex options you can consider:

Swap out the chicken for turkey or tofu for a different protein source.
Use other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus.
Try different dressings, like Greek or ranch, for a new flavor twist.
Add spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick of heat.

Testing Timeline

To ensure your ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies turns out perfectly, consider the following timeline:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 10-15 minutes (can be done while prepping veggies)
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 60 minutes

Make-Ahead & Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to make it ahead and store it:

Prepare the chicken and veggies up to a day in advance. Store them in the marinade covered in the fridge.
Cooked ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but be aware that they may release more moisture during cooking. You might want to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked through.

What can I serve with this dish?

This ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is a great tool to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prep the veggies a day ahead, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and give this ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies a try. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this recipe brings together everything you love about a home-cooked meal: flavor, ease, and satisfaction.

Every bite bursts with tangy goodness, and the vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious dinner that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Happy cooking!