Busy weeknights call for easy, healthy dinners, and this Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken and Root Vegetables recipe delivers! You’ll love how simple it is to prepare a delicious and nutritious meal for two, all on a single pan.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts.
- Root Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, parsnips, or Yukon Gold potatoes work well.
- Balsamic Glaze: Make your own with balsamic vinegar and a touch of maple syrup, or use store-bought.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme are fantastic; dried herbs are also an option.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2-3 thighs)
- 2 cups mixed root vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, parsnips), peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large sheet pan, mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This prevents sticking and makes your healthy chicken dinner recipes for two even simpler.
2. Chop Your Vegetables
Cut your chosen root vegetables into uniform 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly alongside the chicken. Place the chopped vegetables into a large mixing bowl.
3. Season the Vegetables
Drizzle the vegetables with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the dried rosemary (or fresh), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on one half of your prepared sheet pan.
4. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. In a separate bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and the rest of the rosemary. Place the chicken thighs in this marinade and toss to coat thoroughly.
5. Arrange on the Sheet Pan
Place the marinated chicken thighs on the other half of the sheet pan, next to the seasoned vegetables. Ensure there’s a little space between the chicken and vegetables for even cooking.
6. Roast Your Dinner
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the vegetables are tender. You can flip the chicken and stir the vegetables halfway through for optimal browning.
7. Serve and Garnish
Carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and healthy chicken dinner for two!
Variation Ideas:
- Add bell peppers or broccoli florets for more color and nutrients.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes in the balsamic glaze.
- Experiment with different herbs like dried thyme or Italian seasoning.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish brightens the flavors.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken and Root Vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a warm oven until heated through, ensuring your healthy chicken dinner recipes for two stay delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as breasts can cook faster.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The easiest way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Can I prepare this meal ahead of time? You can chop the vegetables and whisk the balsamic glaze a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator.
- What other vegetables can I use? Brussels sprouts, green beans, or even mushrooms would be great additions or substitutions.
- Is this recipe good for meal prepping? Absolutely! It’s a fantastic option for healthy chicken dinner recipes for two that can easily scale for more meals throughout the week.
- What if I don’t have maple syrup? You can substitute it with brown sugar or a touch of honey for sweetness in the balsamic glaze.