Imagine a dish so tantalizing that it transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. Our Balsamic Chicken and Vegetables recipe is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that combines the rich, tangy essence of balsamic vinegar with perfectly roasted chicken and vibrant, colorful vegetables. In just 40 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family begging for seconds and wondering how you became such a culinary genius!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is ready for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- In a large bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well mixed to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare your mixed vegetables. Wash and chop the bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large baking dish, arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the center. Surround the chicken with the chopped mixed vegetables.
- Drizzle any remaining marinade over the vegetables for added flavor. Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute in the chicken.
- Serve the balsamic chicken and vegetables warm, drizzling any remaining juices from the baking dish over the top for extra flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious Balsamic Chicken and Vegetables, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal!
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let your chicken soak in the balsamic marinade for at least 10 minutes, but for even more intense taste, you can marinate up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Vegetable Variation: Feel free to swap or add different vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips work wonderfully.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Enhance the Marinade: For an extra flavor boost, add minced garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to your balsamic mixture.
- Resting Period Matters: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help retain its moisture and ensure tender, succulent meat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
