ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies

Are you ready to dive into a vibrant, delicious dish that’s as easy to make as it is to clean up? This ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken tenderloins and a colorful medley of veggies, all infused with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s explore why you’ll love this recipe, what you need, and how to create this culinary masterpiece in just one pan!

Top Reasons to Make ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• One Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax.
• Flavorful and Healthy: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and lean protein, this meal is satisfying without being heavy.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the veggies or seasoning to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for batch cooking, it stores well and reheats beautifully!

Your Shopping Guide

Before you start cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cooking spray: For greasing the pan.
• 6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: The star of the show for that tangy flavor.
• 1/2 cup zesty Italian dressing: Adds an extra layer of flavor; opt for fat-free if preferred.
• 1-1/4 pounds chicken tenderloins or breasts: Tenderloins are particularly juicy and easy to work with.
• 2 heads of broccoli: Fresh and vibrant, they add great texture.
• 1 cup baby carrots: Sweet and crunchy, perfect for roasting.
• 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes: Juicy and bursting with flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall taste.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking and adding richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth.
• Fresh parsley: Optional, for garnish.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

Setup & Equipment

You don’t need much to whip up this dish! Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:

• Large baking sheet: A must for roasting everything together.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the marinade.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Cooking spatula: For easy tossing and serving.
• Knife and cutting board: To chop the veggies and chicken.

Cooking ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies: The Process

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, zesty Italian dressing, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and olive oil. Whisk until well blended.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken tenderloins to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. If you have time, marinating longer enhances the flavor even more!

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, chop the broccoli into florets and cut the baby carrots in half if they are larger. Halve the cherry tomatoes.

Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Spray your large baking sheet with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated chicken in the center and scatter the broccoli, carrots, and cherry tomatoes around it.

Step 6: Season and Roast

Drizzle any remaining marinade over the veggies and chicken. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve and enjoy your delicious ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies!

Dietary Customizations

Looking to adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs? Here are a few ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure your Italian dressing is gluten-free.
• Low-Carb: Substitute the carrots with zucchini or bell peppers for a lower-carb option.
• Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and adjust the marinade accordingly.
• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free; just ensure any dressing you use is free of dairy ingredients.

Steer Clear of These

While cooking can be forgiving, here are a few things to avoid:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: This can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
• Avoid using too much marinade: While flavor is essential, excess liquid can make the dish soggy.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allow the chicken to rest before serving for the juiciest bites.
• Be cautious with cooking times: Always check for doneness to avoid dry chicken.

Prep Ahead & Store

This ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken and chop the veggies the night before, refrigerating until you’re ready to cook.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat until warmed through.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the veggies may change. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding them to the baking sheet to avoid sogginess.

What can I serve with ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with quinoa, rice, or a side salad for added variety.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any other vegetables you love. Just adjust the roasting time if necessary.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love the idea of one-pan meals, here are some other recipes to check out:

• ONE PAN Lemon Garlic Chicken
• ONE PAN Vegetable Stir Fry
• ONE PAN Sausage and Peppers
• ONE PAN Taco Skillet

Time to Try It

With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, this ONE PAN Balsamic Chicken and Veggies is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together in harmony. You can have a delicious, nutritious dinner on the table in no time, all while using just one pan!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the mouthwatering goodness of this delightful dish. Your taste buds will thank you!