Name: Delicious Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Veggies Quick Meal
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs); 1 cup of balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup of honey; 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon of dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper; 2 cups of broccoli florets; 2 cups of baby carrots; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow onion, sliced; 2 tablespoons of olive oil

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Introduction

Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes that lack excitement and flavor? Prepare to be amazed by the delightful combination of balsamic-glazed chicken and a medley of vibrant vegetables. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a nutritional boost, making it a go-to choice for health-conscious foodies. In fact, recent studies have shown that incorporating balsamic vinegar into your meals can enhance your digestion and support heart health. Get ready to elevate your dinner game and impress your loved ones with this easy-to-follow, flavor-packed recipe.

Ingredients List of Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Veggies

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs)
1 cup of balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup of honey
2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
2 cups of broccoli florets
2 cups of baby carrots
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow onion, sliced
2 tablespoons of olive oil

Substitute suggestions: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts, and feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus, to suit your preferences.

Timing

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes, which is 15% faster than the average baked chicken and vegetable recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it has reduced by half and thickened to a glaze-like consistency, about 10-12 minutes. Remove the glaze from the heat and set it aside.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli florets, baby carrots, sliced bell pepper, and onion with the olive oil. Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper, and arrange them in a single layer on a large baking sheet.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet with the vegetables, making sure they are spaced out evenly. Brush the chicken generously with the prepared balsamic glaze, ensuring that all sides are coated.

Step 4: Bake the Dish

Bake the chicken and vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Halfway through the baking time, baste the chicken with the remaining glaze from the baking sheet to keep it moist and flavorful.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350 per serving
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 550mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 35g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this recipe even healthier, you can try the following modifications:

Use skinless, boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for added juiciness and a boost in nutrients.
Substitute the honey in the glaze with a low-calorie sweetener, such as maple syrup or agave nectar, to reduce the overall sugar content.
Opt for whole-grain or cauliflower rice as a side dish to increase the fiber and nutrient density of the meal.
Add extra vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans, to further enhance the nutritional profile.

Serving Suggestions

This balsamic glazed chicken and vegetable dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or steamed brown rice for a complete and satisfying meal. For a lighter option, enjoy it with a fresh garden salad or a simple side of roasted potatoes. To add a touch of elegance, garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your balsamic glazed chicken and veggies turn out perfectly, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

Overcrowding the baking sheet: Make sure to spread the chicken and vegetables in a single layer to allow for even cooking and browning.
Undercooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it’s fully cooked and safe to consume.
Skipping the basting: Basting the chicken with the remaining glaze halfway through the baking time keeps it moist and infuses it with even more flavor.
Not allowing the glaze to reduce properly: Take the time to simmer the balsamic mixture until it has thickened to a glossy, syrup-like consistency for the best flavor and texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover balsamic glazed chicken and vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer-term storage, the cooked chicken and vegetables can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to reheat, simply thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.

To meal-prep this recipe, you can marinate the chicken in the balsamic glaze and chop the vegetables up to 2 days in advance. Store the prepared ingredients separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the dish.

Conclusion

Elevate your dinner game with this delectable Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Veggies recipe. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken and a medley of roasted vegetables is a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Give it a try and let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

A: Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of balsamic?

While balsamic vinegar is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, to create a similar flavor profile. However, keep in mind that the resulting taste and consistency may vary.

B: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the feta cheese garnish. The balsamic glazed chicken and vegetables are already dairy-free, so you can enjoy the dish as-is without any modifications.

C: Can I prep this dish in advance?

Yes, you can absolutely prepare this recipe in advance. You can marinate the chicken in the balsamic glaze and chop the vegetables up to 2 days ahead of time. Store the prepared ingredients separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the dish.

D: Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This balsamic glazed chicken and vegetable dish is an excellent choice for meal prepping. The leftovers store well and can be reheated quickly, making it a convenient and nutritious option for busy weekdays.

E: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

While this recipe is designed for oven-baking, you can certainly adapt it for a slow cooker or Instant Pot. For a slow cooker method, simply place the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker, pour the balsamic glaze over the top, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For an Instant Pot, adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the appliance’s instructions.

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Delicious Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Veggies Quick Meal

Table of Contents

Introduction

Ingredients List of Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Veggies

Timing