Description
A simple, flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chunks of chicken breasts marinated in balsamic vinegar and olive oil, roasted alongside juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh zucchini, then topped with melted mozzarella cheese and garnished with fresh basil. This recipe combines savory protein and healthy vegetables for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- Olive oil (for tossing the veggies, about 1 tbsp)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting the chicken and vegetables to a perfect golden finish.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken chunks and toss well to coat evenly, allowing the flavors to infuse the meat.
- Prepare the Veggies: In another bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes and sliced zucchini with about 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper to lightly season and help roasting.
- Assemble the One-Pan Meal: Spread the marinated chicken chunks and seasoned vegetables in a single layer on a large baking dish or sheet pan for even cooking.
- Top with Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and vegetables to add creamy, melty goodness.
- Bake until Golden Brown: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through, the vegetables are tender, and the cheese is melted with golden spots.
- Garnish with Fresh Basil: Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a bright, herbal finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the warm Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Veggies straight from the pan for a wholesome, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- You can substitute mozzarella cheese with another mild melting cheese like provolone or fontina if preferred.
- Feel free to add other quick-roasting vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Marinating chicken for 30 minutes before cooking can enhance the balsamic flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese and garnish with extra fresh herbs.
