If you’ve been looking for a quick dinner that fits your Paleo goals, you’ll love one-pan balsamic chicken and asparagus. It brings together tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and a tangy balsamic flavor, all cooked in a single pan to save you time (and dishes). Whether you’re juggling work, family, or just want a simpler meal routine, this recipe is easy to squeeze into your day.
One of the best things about going Paleo is focusing on fresh ingredients, and this dish checks all the boxes. By combining lean protein, crisp veggies, and a delightful caramelized glaze, you get a balanced, flavorful meal in about half an hour. Let’s walk through the simple ingredients and directions so you can get cooking right away.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips or bite-sized pieces)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (woody ends trimmed, stalks cut in half if needed)
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). If you prefer stovetop cooking, you can use a large oven-safe skillet.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and oregano. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic.
- Place the chicken in the pan, then drizzle it evenly with half of your balsamic mixture. Bake or sauté for about 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken pieces.
- Carefully remove the pan from the oven (or reduce heat on the stovetop) and add the asparagus around the chicken. Drizzle the remaining balsamic mixture over the asparagus.
- Return the pan to the oven (or cover on the stovetop) for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) and the asparagus is tender to your liking.
- Let it rest for a minute or two, then serve. You’ll notice the natural juices combining with the balsamic glaze to create a delicious sauce that coats every bite.
Nutrition Facts
Below is an approximate breakdown for one serving of this dish (based on dividing the recipe into four portions):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~300 |
| Protein | ~30 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~9 g |
| Fat | ~15 g |
| Fiber | ~4 g |
Actual values may vary slightly based on the exact ingredients you use, but this table should give you a good sense of how one-pan balsamic chicken and asparagus fits into your Paleo meal plan.
Final Thoughts
This easy recipe perfectly balances flavor, convenience, and healthy Paleo-friendly ingredients. You won’t need to spend ages in the kitchen or load your sink with pans afterward. If you enjoy a bit more zing, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or squeezing some fresh lemon juice before serving. Looking for variety? Swap out the asparagus with zucchini or broccoli without losing the one-pan simplicity.
By making simple, nourishing meals like this, you’ll find the Paleo diet can be both practical and satisfying. Give it a try this week, and you might just discover your new go-to recipe when you need a healthy dinner fast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely. Broccoli, zucchini, or green beans work nicely here. Just adjust the cooking time so each veggie stays crisp-tender. -
Is balsamic vinegar allowed on Paleo?
Most balsamic vinegars are Paleo-friendly as they come from fermented grapes. Just check the label for added sugars or thickeners. -
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any extras in a sealed container in your fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water, so the chicken stays moist.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips or bite-sized pieces)
1 bunch fresh asparagus (woody ends trimmed, stalks cut in half if needed)
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). If you prefer stovetop cooking, you can use a large oven-safe skillet.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and oregano. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic.
- Place the chicken in the pan, then drizzle it evenly with half of your balsamic mixture. Bake or sauté for about 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken pieces.
- Carefully remove the pan from the oven (or reduce heat on the stovetop) and add the asparagus around the chicken. Drizzle the remaining balsamic mixture over the asparagus.
- Return the pan to the oven (or cover on the stovetop) for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) and the asparagus is tender to your liking.
- Let it rest for a minute or two, then serve. You’ll notice the natural juices combining with the balsamic glaze to create a delicious sauce that coats every bite.
