Name: Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 3 tbsp brown sugar; 2 large sweet potatoes; 2 tbsp canola oil; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp coarse ground black pepper

A delicious, easy-to-make dinner option, this balsamic chicken sheet pan recipe combines the tangy, sweet taste of balsamic vinegar with the savory flavor of chicken. Paired with sweet potatoes, it creates a well-rounded meal that's both satisfying and good for you.

Photos of Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe should be readily available in your pantry, such as balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and canola oil. However, the sweet potatoes might require a trip to the supermarket, if not commonly kept at home. Choose large sweet potatoes that are firm to touch.

Ingredients for Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

Chicken thighs: The protein of the recipe, adding a substantial, satisfying element.

Balsamic vinegar: Adds a unique, tangy sweetness to the chicken.

Brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the vinegar, creating a perfect balance.

Sweet potatoes: Adds a wholesome, nutritious component to the dish.

Canola oil: Used for roasting the potatoes, it has a neutral flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients.

Kosher salt: To season and bring out the flavors of the ingredients.

Coarse ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to the dish.

One reader, Chevalier Stubbs says:

This balsamic chicken sheet pan recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the chicken comes out tender and juicy. The sweet potatoes add a delightful touch. It's easy to make and clean up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Highly recommend trying it!

Chevalier Stubbs

Techniques Required for Making Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan

How to marinate the chicken: Rub the chicken thighs with balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed and the chicken is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

How to prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces. Toss the sweet potatoes with canola oil, salt, and pepper on the sheet pan, ensuring they are evenly coated before baking.

How to check for doneness: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. The sweet potatoes should be tender and golden brown when pierced with a fork.

How to serve: Plate the balsamic chicken and sweet potatoes together on a serving platter, drizzling any remaining pan juices over the chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve warm.

How To Make Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken

Our sheet pan balsamic chicken is the perfect dish to prepare for your weeknight dinner! Indulge yourself with a filling meal cooked in just 30 minutes.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4chicken thighs,bone in, skin on
3tbspbalsamic vinegar
3tbspbrown sugar
2large sweet potatoes,peeled, chopped into 1-inch cubes
2tbspcanola oil
½tspkosher salt
¼tspcoarse ground black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar. Rub it on well before adding the brown sugar to the chicken.
Add the oil, salt, and pepper to the sweet potatoes on the sheet pan, then carefully toss to combine.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 595.03kcal
Fat: 39.10g
Saturated Fat: 9.26g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 17.83g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.67g
Carbohydrates: 25.63g
Fiber: 2.47g
Sugar: 11.79g
Protein: 33.24g
Cholesterol: 189.14mg
Sodium: 440.88mg
Calcium: 47.55mg
Potassium: 691.97mg
Iron: 1.96mg
Vitamin A: 620.49µg
Vitamin C: 1.95mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Your Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan

When seasoning the chicken thighs with balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, it's important to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated. This can be achieved by using your hands to rub the mixture into the chicken, ensuring that it gets into all the nooks and crannies. This will not only help the flavors to penetrate deeper into the chicken, but also create a delicious caramelized crust on the outside of the chicken as it bakes.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, marinate meats, and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pan wonders: Opt for sheet pan or one-pot recipes to minimize cleanup and simplify meal preparation.

Batch cooking: Cook large quantities of staple ingredients like grains, proteins, and sauces to use in multiple dishes throughout the week.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate utensils, ingredients, and cooking tools, saving time and reducing stress.

Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to maximize efficiency by working on multiple components simultaneously.

Substitute Ingredients For Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe

balsamic vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar has a similar tangy flavor that can replace balsamic vinegar in this recipe.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the dish, similar to brown sugar.
sweet potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor and will roast well alongside the chicken.
canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative and will add a rich flavor to the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of saltiness.

Presenting Your Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan Creation

Elevate the plating: Arrange the balsamic chicken thighs on the plate with precision, ensuring each piece is positioned thoughtfully for visual appeal.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements such as roasted sweet potatoes to add a pop of color and contrast to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the dish to add a touch of freshness and elevate the overall presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by allowing some empty space on the plate, enhancing the visual impact of the dish.
Consider plate shape and size: Choose a plate that complements the dish, ensuring it enhances the overall presentation without overwhelming the ingredients.

Essential Tools for Making a Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan Meal

Oven: Used for baking or roasting the chicken and sweet potatoes.
Sheet pan: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for cooking the chicken and sweet potatoes in the oven.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and seasonings for the chicken.
Tongs: Used for flipping and handling the chicken while it's cooking.
Chef's knife: Used for cutting the sweet potatoes and trimming the chicken thighs.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing the sweet potatoes and chicken.
Measuring spoons: Used for accurately measuring the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
Basting brush: Used for evenly spreading the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar mixture onto the chicken.
Aluminum foil: Can be used to line the sheet pan for easy cleanup.

Storing and Freezing Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan

Allow the balsamic chicken and sweet potatoes to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze the leftovers, transfer the cooled chicken and sweet potatoes to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
When properly stored, the frozen balsamic chicken and sweet potatoes will maintain their best quality for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen leftovers in the refrigerator overnight.
Place the thawed chicken and sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed to your liking.
Note: The texture of the sweet potatoes may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor should remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover balsamic chicken and sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the sheet pan loosely with another piece of foil to prevent the chicken and potatoes from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken and potatoes are heated through.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place the leftover balsamic chicken and sweet potatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken and potatoes are heated through. Stir the potatoes and flip the chicken halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover balsamic chicken and sweet potatoes. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken and potatoes are heated through and crispy on the outside.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover balsamic chicken and sweet potatoes in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the skillet to help create steam and prevent the chicken and potatoes from drying out. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken and potatoes are heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated balsamic chicken and sweet potatoes, try drizzling them with a little extra balsamic vinegar or sprinkling them with some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before reheating. This will help to refresh the flavors and make your leftovers taste like new.

Interesting Trivia About Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan

Balsamic chicken sheet pan recipe is a simple and delicious meal that can be easily customized with different vegetables and seasonings. It's a great option for a quick and healthy dinner, and the balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the chicken. This recipe is also a convenient option for meal prep, as it can be easily portioned and stored for later consumption. Additionally, the combination of balsamic vinegar and brown sugar creates a caramelized coating on the chicken, adding a depth of flavor to the dish. Overall, this sheet pan recipe is a versatile and flavorful option for any day of the week.

Is Making Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this balsamic chicken sheet pan recipe is quite high. The ingredients are relatively affordable and commonly found in households. The use of chicken thighs and sweet potatoes provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates. The balsamic vinegar and brown sugar add a touch of sophistication without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe is a solid 8/10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option for a satisfying meal.

Is This Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This balsamic chicken sheet pan recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side:

Chicken thighs are a good source of protein
Sweet potatoes provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals

However, there are some areas of concern:

The recipe uses brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, which add sugar and calories
Canola oil is used, which is a refined oil high in omega-6 fatty acids
The overall calorie and fat content may be high depending on portion sizes

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use a healthier oil like olive oil or avocado oil instead of canola oil
Add more non-starchy vegetables to the sheet pan, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or onions, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
Use skinless chicken thighs or replace them with chicken breasts to reduce the fat content
Monitor portion sizes to control overall calorie intake
Experiment with additional herbs and spices, like garlic, rosemary, or thyme, to add flavor without relying on sugar or excessive oil

Editor's Opinion on This Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

This balsamic chicken sheet pan recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The balsamic vinegar and brown sugar create a rich glaze for the chicken, while the sweet potatoes add a hearty and nutritious element to the dish. The simplicity of this recipe makes it perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal, and the use of a sheet pan makes for easy cleanup. Overall, this recipe is a winner in terms of taste, convenience, and presentation.

Enhance Your Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese before roasting until crispy and golden brown.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Whip up creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and a hint of thyme for a comforting and flavorful side dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Drizzle carrots with honey and a touch of cinnamon before roasting to create a sweet and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with the balsamic chicken.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Roast the broccoli with garlic, parmesan, and olive oil for a flavorful side dish.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: Coat the salmon with a honey mustard glaze and bake until tender and flaky for a delicious seafood option.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, and lime juice for a refreshing and colorful salsa to serve with tortilla chips or grilled chicken.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simmer tomatoes, onions, garlic, and basil in a creamy broth for a comforting and satisfying soup option.

Apple Cinnamon Crisp: Toss sliced apples with cinnamon and sugar, then top with a buttery oat crumble for a warm and comforting dessert.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Balsamic Chicken Sheet Pan

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Assemble fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers for a simple and elegant appetizer. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor that will impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delicious and flavorful meal, thanks to the combination of balsamic vinegar and brown sugar that creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The use of chicken thighs ensures juicy and tender meat, while the addition of sweet potatoes provides a hearty and nutritious accompaniment. With the simple yet effective cooking method of baking on a sheet pan, this recipe offers convenience and ease. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and straightforward instructions to create a satisfying and wholesome dish.

Share your thoughts on the Sheet Pan Balsamic Chicken Recipe in the Recipe Sharing section of our cooking forum.

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.

Can I substitute the sweet potatoes with other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can use a variety of vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.

Is there a substitute for balsamic vinegar?

If you don't have balsamic vinegar, you can use a combination of red wine vinegar and honey or maple syrup as a substitute. It will provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade for the chicken and chop the sweet potatoes ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated separately until you are ready to cook. This can be a great time-saving option for busy weeknights.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, and it should read 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. If you don't have a thermometer, make a small cut near the bone – the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.