Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken – Juicy, Tangy, and Ready in 30 Minutes
Juicy chicken, caramelized vegetables, and a tangy-sweet glaze—all made in a single pan. One Pan Balsamic Chicken is your answer to a fast, flavorful dinner that tastes like you cooked all day. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication, ready in under an hour with minimal cleanup.
A Bold, Balanced Weeknight Favorite
This dish takes classic chicken and vegetables to the next level with a punchy balsamic glaze. The vinegar reduces into a rich, syrupy coating that clings to every bite. It’s cozy and satisfying without feeling heavy, ideal for any night of the week.
More Delicious Dishes with Just One Pan
- One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice (Easy Weeknight Dinner)
- Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta – Creamy & Easy One-Pot Dinner
- Smothered Chicken and Rice – A Soulful, One-Pot Comfort Classic
- Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Fresh Herb Ranch Slaw
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
You don’t need much to make this dish shine. A handful of pantry staples—balsamic vinegar, garlic, olive oil—combine with fresh chicken and veggies for bold flavor. Everything roasts together, soaking up all that caramelized goodness.
- 1.5–2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for a sweeter glaze)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or oregano)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Nourishing, Customizable & Quick
This one-pan dinner is well-balanced and adaptable to any dietary needs. Chicken provides lean protein, while veggies deliver fiber and color. It’s quick to prep and easy to tweak, making it perfect for weeknights or meal planning.
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: ~450mg
Timing Breakdown
You don’t need a lot of time—or dishes—to get a beautiful meal on the table. Quick prep and oven roasting do most of the work, while you get to relax. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it dinner with a restaurant-quality payoff.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
How to Make One-Pan Balsamic Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
Toss chicken thighs or breasts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let sit while you prep your vegetables.
2. Arrange on a Sheet Pan
Place chicken on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Surround with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, or cherry tomatoes.
3. Roast to Perfection
Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway. The balsamic will reduce and coat the chicken and veggies in a glossy glaze.
4. Finish & Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Spoon extra pan juices over everything for maximum flavor.
Easy Swaps & Add-Ons
This dish works with whatever you have in the fridge. Mix and match proteins, switch up the vegetables, or add extra herbs for your own twist. It’s a recipe that rewards creativity without adding effort.
- Use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version
- Try honey or maple syrup for a sweeter glaze
- Add potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier meal
- Swap in asparagus, mushrooms, or green beans
- Top with feta or goat cheese after roasting
Serving Ideas That Work Every Time
Balsamic chicken is flavorful enough to stand alone, but it also plays well with sides or grains. It’s an easy fit for weeknight dinners, meal prep containers, or even casual entertaining.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or farro
- Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or polenta
- Add to a bed of greens for a warm salad
- Use leftovers in wraps, sandwiches, or grain bowls
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
This recipe is ideal for make-ahead meals and keeps well in the fridge. Roast a big batch on Sunday and enjoy flavorful lunches or dinners all week long. Reheat gently to keep the chicken moist.
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days
- Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth
- Freeze in portions for up to 1 month
- Use leftovers in wraps, pastas, or salads
Tips for Perfect Balsamic Chicken Every Time
A few small tricks make this dish go from good to great. From marinating time to oven temperature, paying attention to details helps create deeper flavor and better texture.
- Don’t skip the marinade—even 10 minutes helps
- Use skin-on chicken thighs for juicier results
- Roast at high heat to caramelize the balsamic
- Line your sheet pan for easy cleanup
- Add a splash of vinegar after baking for extra tang
Conclusion: A Fast, Flavorful Favorite
One Pan Balsamic Chicken is a dinner winner for any night—quick, bold, and brimming with flavor. It’s a one-pan miracle that hits all the right notes: sweet, savory, hearty, and wholesome. Keep it in your rotation for when you want something easy, impressive, and totally satisfying.