1 Shares

When spring rolls around and fresh asparagus starts to make its appearance, I’m always on the lookout for the perfect dish that highlights those vibrant flavors. That’s exactly how I discovered this Easy One-Pan Balsamic Chicken with Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes—a wonderful addition to any weeknight dinner lineup. Imagine the sizzle of tender chicken in a rich balsamic glaze, the bright crunch of asparagus, and the burst of sweetness from juicy cherry tomatoes, all coming together in one single pan.

This meal has become my go-to, blending ease with flavor and allowing me to get that satisfying home-cooked feel without the hassle of too many pots and pans. And the best part? You can easily switch up the vegetables based on what’s in season, making it a versatile favorite year-round. Let’s get cooking—you’re just a few steps away from a delightful dinner that will impress anyone at your table!

Why is One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills, making it a great choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Flavor-packed experience: The homemade balsamic glaze infuses every bite with a rich, tangy sweetness that you’ll crave.

Quick and easy cleanup: Prepare this mouthwatering dish all in one pan—less mess equals more time to relax!

Versatile options abound: Feel free to swap seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to keep your dinners fresh and exciting.

Crowd-pleaser appeal: The blend of tender chicken, colorful veggies, and syrupy glaze is sure to impress everyone around the table.

Dive into this delightful dish, and don’t forget to explore more easy weeknight dinner options on our blog!

One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus Ingredients

• Make mealtime magic with these essentials!

For the Glaze

Balsamic Vinegar – Provides a sharp, tangy flavor and forms the base of the glaze; no substitutions needed, but apple cider vinegar can reduce acidity if desired.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (divided) – Adds richness and helps with cooking; can substitute with canola oil for a neutral taste.
Honey – Sweetens the glaze and balances the acidity; consider maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
Dijon Mustard – Enhances flavor complexity and emulsifies the glaze; yellow mustard is a good substitute.
Garlic (minced) – Deepens the flavor profile; garlic powder can be a quick fix in a pinch.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Provides mild heat to contrast the sweet glaze; omit if you prefer a milder dish.

For the Chicken

Chicken Breast Tenders – The star protein for this one-pan balsamic chicken and asparagus, tender and quick to cook; substitute with chicken thighs or sliced breasts as desired.
Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors; table salt and regular pepper work too.

For the Veggies

Asparagus (woody ends trimmed) – Contributes a fresh crunch and vibrant color; feel free to swap with green beans or zucchini.
Cherry Tomatoes (halved) – Add sweetness and juiciness to the dish; grape tomatoes or any seasonal veggies can be used instead.

Gather these ingredients and get ready to bring the enticing flavors of the One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus to your dinner table!

How to Make One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus

Prepare the Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
Cook Chicken: Season the chicken tenders with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring they are cooked through.
Add Veggies: Toss the trimmed asparagus and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet with the golden chicken. Pour the prepared balsamic glaze evenly over everything, ensuring all the ingredients are coated.
Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook until the veggies are tender and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature, about 5-8 minutes. Stir occasionally. If the glaze thickens too much, add a tablespoon of water to maintain moisture without over-reducing the glaze.

Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus

Fridge: Store leftover One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus in an airtight container for up to three days. Make sure to keep it sealed to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to refresh the glaze and prevent drying out.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the glaze and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Store everything in the fridge separately to save time on the cooking day.

What to Serve with One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus?

Elevate your meal with delightful sides that play well with the bold flavors of chicken and veggies.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes add a comforting creaminess that balances the tangy glaze beautifully. A scoop of mashed potatoes alongside your chicken brings a rustic charm to the table.
Quinoa Salad: A light, fluffy salad tossed with herbs, lemon, and perhaps a sprinkle of feta creates a refreshing contrast to the rich balsamic chicken. Adding cherry tomatoes to the salad would mirror those in your main dish, creating harmony on your plate.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, warm garlic bread is the perfect vehicle for any leftover glaze. The crispy exterior and soft interior make it irresistible, and you’ll want to soak up every last drop of that delectable sauce.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans bring a crisp texture and a fresh flavor to your meal. A squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt can brighten their taste and complement the chicken’s delicious glaze.
Simple Arugula Salad: A salad with peppery arugula, sliced cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the chicken. This light and refreshing option adds a hint of sophistication to your dinner spread.
Sparkling Lemonade: Compliment your meal with a glass of bubbly lemonade. Its citrus notes and fizz will uplift your dining experience, refreshing your palate sip after sip.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent finish. Its velvety texture and indulgent flavor contrast skillfully with the savory elements of your main dish, leaving your taste buds dancing in delight.

One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this delicious dish to suit your taste and pantry!

Dairy-Free: Omit any cheese toppings or use a vegan cheese alternative for a lactose-friendly meal.
Enjoy the freshness without dairy and let those beautiful flavors shine through!
Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños for a fiery twist.
This will elevate your dish and awaken your taste buds with each bite!
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Their earthy notes will complement the sweetness of the glaze beautifully.
Sautéed Mushrooms: Swap some of the asparagus for sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost.
The mushrooms will soak up the balsamic glaze, adding depth to the dish.
Quinoa Base: Serve your One-Pan Balsamic Chicken over a bed of fluffy quinoa instead of rice.
This twist adds a nutritious grain while soaking up every last drop of the glaze.
Honey Alternative: Replace honey with agave syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener option.
You’ll still achieve that delightful sweetness while keeping it plant-based.
Add Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast.
This adds not just flavor but also a delightful crispy element to every bite.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralize zucchini instead of using traditional veggies.
This twist keeps things light while still delivering the satisfying essence of the dish.

Expert Tips for One-Pan Balsamic Chicken

Even Cooking: Cut chicken tenders into uniform sizes to ensure that they cook evenly and reach the right temperature at the same time.
Glaze Adjustments: If the balsamic glaze thickens too much during cooking, add a tablespoon of water to prevent burning and keep it flavorful.
Marinate for More Flavor: For a richer taste, consider marinating the chicken in the balsamic mixture for a few hours prior to cooking.
Vegetable Swaps: Don’t hesitate to switch out asparagus or cherry tomatoes for your favorite seasonal vegetables. Green beans or zucchini work wonderfully!
Check Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached 165°F internally for safe consumption.
Presentation Matters: A final drizzle of extra balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate the visual appeal and flavor of your One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus.

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can marinate the chicken in the balsamic glaze up to 24 hours in advance, which will deepen the flavors beautifully. Additionally, you can chop and refrigerate the asparagus and halve the cherry tomatoes up to 3 days ahead; just be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the marinated chicken and add your prepared veggies, finishing with the glaze for that delicious, sticky finish. This simple prep saves you time during busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal that tastes just as fresh and vibrant!

One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus Recipe FAQs

What type of asparagus should I choose for this dish?
When selecting asparagus, look for firm stalks with bright green color and tightly closed tips. Avoid any bunches that have dark spots or are wilting. Thicker stalks are great for roasting, but any size will work beautifully in this recipe.

How long can I store leftovers?
You can keep your One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To ensure freshness, seal it tightly. I suggest reheating it in a skillet rather than the microwave, as this will help maintain the texture of the chicken and vegetables.

Can I freeze this meal?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to press out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the glaze.

What should I do if the chicken isn’t fully cooked?
If you find the chicken tenders are undercooked but the glaze has thickened too much, simply add a tablespoon of water to your skillet and cover it again. This will create steam that helps finish cooking the chicken without burning the glaze. Always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

How can I accommodate dietary restrictions?
For those with dietary concerns, this One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus can easily be adapted. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option, and feel free to swap out the chicken for firm tofu or a different protein like pork tenderloin. Always check ingredient labels for allergies, especially with the balsamic and mustard.

Can I use other vegetables instead of asparagus?
The more the merrier! You can definitely substitute asparagus with seasonal favorites like bell peppers, zucchini, or even snap peas. Each will bring a delightful crunch and flavor, so don’t hesitate to mix it up based on what’s available or what you like best!