Ready to elevate your dinner game? This Balsamic Chicken & Brussels Sheet Pan recipe packs vibrant flavors and is super easy to make. With juicy chicken, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze, you’ll impress your taste buds and your family. Let’s dive into this simple, one-pan dish that is both healthy and delicious! Get your ingredients ready and let’s cook!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Glaze Ingredients
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil, for garnish
The main ingredients for the Balsamic Chicken & Brussels Sheet Pan make it simple and tasty. First, you need the chicken. It gives the dish its protein. The Brussels sprouts add crunch and nutrition. Cherry tomatoes offer a sweet burst of flavor.
For the glaze, balsamic vinegar is key. It brings that tangy taste we love. Olive oil helps the glaze stick. Honey adds sweetness to balance the vinegar. This mix makes your chicken juicy and the veggies vibrant.
To spice things up, garlic and onion powders are must-haves. They give depth to the flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, don’t forget fresh basil! It adds a lovely aroma and color.
With these ingredients, you are set for a delicious, easy meal. Each bite bursts with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Glaze
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This creates a tasty glaze.
Arranging the Ingredients on the Sheet Pan
– Place the chicken breasts on a large sheet pan, leaving space between them.
– Drizzle half of the balsamic glaze over the chicken. Make sure each piece is coated well.
– In another bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts and cherry tomatoes with the other half of the glaze.
– Arrange the veggies around the chicken on the pan.
Cooking the Dish
– Roast the pan in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
– Check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F.
– After cooking, let the dish rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle.
– Garnish with fresh basil before serving. This adds a nice touch and flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Balsamic Glaze
To make a great balsamic glaze, balance is key. Start with equal parts balsamic vinegar and olive oil. The oil adds richness. For flavor, honey brings sweetness, while garlic and onion powder add depth.
If you want a sweeter glaze, add more honey. For tanginess, increase the balsamic vinegar. Taste as you mix. Adjust the flavors until they suit your taste buds.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting chicken well keeps it juicy. First, use a high oven temperature, like 400°F (200°C). This helps brown the chicken. Make sure to space the chicken on the sheet pan. This allows heat to circulate and cook evenly.
Brussels sprouts need proper care too. To make them crispy, cut them in half and toss them in the glaze. Spread them out on the pan. Avoid crowding, as it leads to steaming instead of roasting.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with simple sides. A fresh salad or some crusty bread works well. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
If you have leftovers, get creative! Shred the chicken and toss it in a salad or sandwich. Mix the Brussels sprouts and tomatoes into a stir-fry or omelet. The options are endless!
Variations
Vegetable Alternatives
You can change up the veggies in this dish. Use seasonal veggies like carrots or zucchini. These add a sweet crunch. Roasting cauliflower also works well. It brings a nice texture and flavor. Mixing different veggies keeps the dish fresh and fun.
Protein Substitutes
If you want to switch up the protein, turkey is a great choice. It cooks well and absorbs the glaze nicely. You can also try a plant-based protein. Adjust cooking times for these options. Turkey may take a bit longer, while plant-based proteins often cook faster.
Flavor Enhancements
Boost the flavor by adding fresh herbs. Rosemary and thyme bring a lovely aroma. You can also try different vinegars. Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can add a unique twist. Experiment with these choices to find your favorite flavor combo.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Balsamic Chicken and Brussels sprouts fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to let the dish cool down first. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This dish will last about three to four days in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your leftovers, use the oven for the best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and veggies on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer a microwave, use it on medium power for a few minutes. To avoid dry chicken, add a splash of water before heating.
Freezing Options
If you want to freeze leftovers, follow these steps. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. Seal it tightly and mark the date. Balsamic Chicken will stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer.
To thaw, move the container to the fridge overnight. For a quick option, use the microwave on defrost mode. After thawing, reheat using the oven or microwave methods noted above. This way, you keep that juicy flavor and texture!
FAQs
What is the best temperature to cook chicken?
The best temperature to cook chicken is 400°F (200°C). At this heat, the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy. Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. This ensures it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free balsamic vinegar. Always check labels on all ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. Avoid products that may have gluten added. Fresh fruits and veggies, like the cherry tomatoes and Brussels sprouts, are safe.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Marinate the chicken in the balsamic glaze a few hours ahead. Store the chicken and veggies in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready, just roast them in the oven. This saves time and helps flavors develop.
This dish combines juicy chicken, flavorful Brussels sprouts, and sweet cherry tomatoes. You learned how to prepare a tasty balsamic glaze and roast everything to perfection. Remember, you can adjust flavors and use different vegetables or proteins. Storing leftovers is simple, and reheating keeps your meal delicious. Enjoy this easy recipe and make it your own with variations. You now have the tools to impress anyone at your table!
