Introduction
If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s easy, healthy, and absolutely delicious, this Honey Balsamic Chicken Breasts & Veggies is a winner. Everything cooks together on one sheet pan — juicy chicken, roasted veggies, and a sweet-tangy honey balsamic glaze. It’s the perfect balance of flavor and convenience, and cleanup is a breeze. This recipe is also flexible — you can swap veggies depending on what you have on hand.
Ingredients (Shopping List)
Here’s everything you’ll need (serves 4):
For the Chicken & Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Veggies
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
Before you start, gather these essentials:
- Rimmed sheet pan (large, heavy-duty so it won’t warp)
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Tongs
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper (for easier cleanup)
Preparation Steps (Step-by-Step, Barney Style)
- Make the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or bowl. Pour half the marinade over the chicken (reserve the rest for later). Let it sit for 15–30 minutes while you prep the veggies.
- Prep the veggies: Wash and cut zucchini, peppers, onion, and carrots. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Line the pan: Cover your sheet pan with foil or parchment for easy cleanup. Spread the veggies evenly on the pan.
- Add the chicken: Place marinated chicken breasts on top of the veggies. Brush with a little extra marinade.
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) (use a meat thermometer).
- Glaze & finish: In the last 5 minutes, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade for extra flavor.
- Rest & serve: Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
👉 Pro Tip: If you want extra caramelization, switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
- Serve with fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or crusty artisan bread.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Additional Tips
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Low-carb option: Swap carrots for broccoli or cauliflower.
- Meal prep: This recipe reheats beautifully — perfect for weekday lunches.
- Dairy-free & gluten-free: Naturally fits both diets as written.
Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 chicken breast + veggies)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~365 |
| Protein | 36g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
FAQ
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Thighs are juicier and work great. Just adjust cooking time (25–30 minutes).
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prep the veggies and marinade the chicken up to a day in advance. Assemble and bake when ready.
Q: What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
A: Substitute with apple cider vinegar + a splash of soy sauce for depth.
Wrap-Up
And there you have it — a simple, flavorful dinner that’s as easy as tossing everything on a sheet pan. The honey balsamic glaze gives the chicken a restaurant-quality finish while the roasted veggies make it a wholesome, complete meal.
✨ Fun fact: The combination of sweet (honey) and tangy (balsamic) is an age-old trick chefs use to balance flavors — it excites both your sweet and savory taste buds at the same time.
So the next time you need a no-fuss, healthy dinner, give this Honey Balsamic Chicken Breasts & Veggies a try. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!
