Description
A simple and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts baked with a medley of fresh vegetables and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a healthy, easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to warm up while you prepare the ingredients.
- Make the Balsamic Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until fully combined to create a flavorful marinade and glaze.
- Prepare Chicken and Vegetables: Arrange the chicken breasts on a large, rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Surround the chicken with the sliced zucchini, red bell pepper, red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Coat with Mixture: Drizzle the balsamic mixture evenly over both the chicken and vegetables. Gently toss the vegetables to ensure they are coated with the marinade, enhancing their flavor during baking.
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender.
- Broil for Caramelization: For an extra depth of flavor and slight caramelization, switch your oven to broil and cook the tray for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
- Add potatoes or green beans to the tray for a more filling meal.
- Marinate chicken in the balsamic mixture for 30 minutes before baking to enhance juiciness and flavor.
- This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
