A simple and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender balsamic-marinated chicken, roasted cherry tomatoes, and zucchini, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is perfect for a wholesome dinner that’s quick to prep and full of vibrant flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup with everything baked together.
- Balanced and Healthy: Lean protein paired with fresh vegetables.
- Rich Flavors: Tangy balsamic vinegar enhances the savory chicken and veggies.
- Cheesy Goodness: Melted mozzarella adds a creamy, golden finish.
- Quick Prep and Cook: Ready in under 45 minutes for busy nights.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add chicken chunks and toss to coat evenly.
- In a separate bowl, toss cherry tomatoes and zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on a large baking dish or sheet pan.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and veggies.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through, vegetables are tender, and cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
- Add Other Veggies: Include bell peppers, red onions, or mushrooms for variety.
- Use Different Cheese: Try shredded cheddar, provolone, or Parmesan.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
- Herbs: Incorporate rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for juicier meat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Use thawed chicken for even cooking and best results.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Marinate the chicken and prep veggies in advance; assemble and bake when ready.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Omit the mozzarella or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I use balsamic glaze instead of vinegar?
Yes, balsamic glaze can be used but reduce or omit additional olive oil.
Can I add garlic?
Yes, minced garlic can be added to the marinade for extra flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad.
How do I keep the veggies from getting soggy?
Arrange veggies in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, but cooking times may vary; check frequently for doneness.
Conclusion
Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Veggies is a simple, wholesome meal bursting with fresh flavors and cheesy goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan dish offers a satisfying combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and melty cheese that will quickly become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
Print
Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Veggies
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender balsamic-marinated chicken, roasted cherry tomatoes, and zucchini topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a wholesome and quick dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add chicken chunks and toss to coat evenly.
- In a separate bowl, toss cherry tomatoes and zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange chicken and vegetables in a single layer on a large baking dish or sheet pan.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over chicken and veggies.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through, vegetables are tender, and cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Add bell peppers, red onions, or mushrooms for more veggies.
- Substitute mozzarella with cheddar, provolone, or Parmesan cheese.
- Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for spice.
- Use rosemary or thyme for aromatic herbs.
- Substitute chicken breasts with boneless thighs for juicier meat.
- Store leftovers in airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days.
- Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg