This dish is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep and cleanup, it combines juicy chicken breasts with a tangy balsamic glaze, complemented by sweet cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. The result is a flavorful, one pan meal that's both satisfying and nutritious.
Full Recipe:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh spinach
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the balsamic marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Add Tomatoes: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish.
Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Add Spinach: In the last 5 minutes of baking, add the fresh spinach to the dish. It will wilt down and add a burst of color and nutrients.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices in the chicken.
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 45g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 120mg