In the hustle of everyday life, creating a wholesome meal can feel like a daunting task, especially on those busy weeknights. Enter my One-Pan Honey Balsamic Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts—a flavorful savior for your dinner dilemma. This dish boasts a delightful harmony of tender ground chicken and crispy Brussels sprouts, all brought together with a sweet and tangy sauce that transforms your veggies into a genuine treat. The best part? You can whip it up in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for quick dinners or Sunday meal prep. Plus, it’s low-carb and versatile, allowing you to swap in turkey or beef as you please. Ready to discover how simple dinner can be while still being satisfying? Let’s dive into this easy recipe!
Why is this one-pan meal a game changer?
Simplicity at Its Best: This One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking skills, making it perfect for anyone in a hurry.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy honey balsamic sauce elevates the dish, ensuring even veggie skeptics will enjoy every bite.
Versatile Protein Options: Feel free to swap ground chicken for turkey or beef, tailoring it to your taste or what you have on hand.
Quick and Healthy: In just 15 minutes, you’re serving a delicious, low-carb meal packed with protein—ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep!
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax, so you can enjoy your meal without the stress of washing multiple pots.
If you’re on the hunt for more quick recipes, try my Chopped Chicken Caesar or the Fried Chicken Street for varied flavors!
One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sprouts
- Ground Chicken – Use 97% lean for a healthier dish, or swap for ground turkey or beef based on preference.
- Shaved Brussels Sprouts – Adds a crispy texture; halved Brussels sprouts can be used for a different bite.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing, imparting healthy fats; consider using avocado oil for a different flavor.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Provides a tangy kick; opt for high-quality vinegar for the best taste in this one-pan meal.
- Honey – Balances the bitterness of Brussels sprouts; can be replaced with agave syrup for a lower-carb option.
- Whole Grain Mustard – Brings depth to the sauce; substitute with Dijon mustard if needed.
For Seasoning
- Black Pepper – Enhances flavor; adjust to your taste preference.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; modify according to your desired saltiness.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and whole grain mustard. Whisk the mixture until well combined and set it aside. The tangy aroma will instantly whet your appetite, making it a perfect complement to your One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts.
Step 2: Sauté Brussels Sprouts
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the shaved Brussels sprouts and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they turn vibrant green and start to soften. You want them slightly tender but still crisp. Remove them from the skillet and set aside, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook Ground Chicken
In the same skillet, add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula. Brown one side thoroughly for about 3-4 minutes without stirring, allowing it to develop flavor. Once the bottom is nicely browned, continue cooking, stirring occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink, about 4-5 more minutes.
Step 4: Combine and Glaze
Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the cooked ground chicken, stirring well to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken evenly. The smell of sweet and tangy flavors will fill your kitchen as you create this enticing One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts dish.
Step 5: Reintroduce Brussels Sprouts
Return the sautéed Brussels sprouts to the skillet, mixing them gently with the chicken and sauce. Cook for another minute to heat everything through and allow the flavors to blend beautifully. The dish will become visually striking as the bright green sprouts mingle with the savory glazed chicken.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the final mixture and adjust the seasoning with black pepper and kosher salt to your preference. Once seasoned, serve the One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts warm over rice or cauliflower rice to complete your meal. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors as you dig into this quick and satisfying dish.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic meal prep solution! You can prepare the sauce (balsamic vinegar, honey, and whole grain mustard) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The shaved Brussels sprouts can also be washed and sliced ahead of time, keeping them in a sealed bag for up to 24 hours. This allows you to streamline your cooking process. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply sauté the Brussels sprouts and cook the ground chicken according to the instructions, then add the pre-made sauce and heat through for a quick dinner that’s just as delicious as when made fresh!
One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Variations
Customize your One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts to elevate your dining experience with different flavors and textures!
- Turkey Twist: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner protein that’s just as delicious.
- Beefy Addition: For a heartier option, use ground beef instead of chicken. The robust flavor pairs wonderfully with the balsamic sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like diced bell peppers or snap peas to create a colorful, nutrient-packed dish.
- Zesty Kick: Add a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for an extra heat kick that complements the sweetness of the dish.
- Sweet Swap: Instead of honey, try maple syrup for a unique sweet note that adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Whole Grain Upgrade: Serve over quinoa or whole grain pasta instead of rice for a fulfilling alternative that enhances texture and nutrition.
- Mustard Variations: Swap whole grain mustard for Dijon or spicy brown mustard to change the zing factor of the sauce.
- Herbal Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary just before serving to bring a fresh, aromatic touch to the entire dish.
Now that you’ve got all these scrumptious variations, why not explore more flavorful options? Try my Greek Chicken Meatballs or the zesty Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken to keep your meals exciting!
Helpful Tricks for One-Pan Ground Chicken
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Even Browning: For optimal browning, ensure your pan is hot before adding the ground chicken. Let it sit undisturbed to develop a nice crust, enhancing flavor and texture.
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Proper Prep: Use shaved Brussels sprouts for quicker cooking. If using whole sprouts, slice them thinly to avoid undercooked bits and achieve that lovely crispy texture.
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Sauce Balance: Taste your sauce before adding it to the chicken. Adjust sweetness or tanginess with honey or balsamic vinegar to best suit your palate and elevate the One-Pan Ground Chicken flavor.
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Clean Up Made Easy: Line your skillet with parchment paper before cooking. It minimizes sticking and makes cleanup a breeze—less time scrubbing means more time enjoying your meal!
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Customization: Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. Adding color and additional flavors can transform your One-Pan Ground Chicken into a personalized culinary delight.
How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts fresh and ready to enjoy whenever hunger strikes.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated evenly.
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Freshness Tip: If you anticipate having leftovers, consider storing the sauce separately to maintain the texture of the Brussels sprouts when reheated.
What to Serve with One-Pan Honey Balsamic Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts
Create a feast around this vibrant dish that brings together comfort and freshness in every bite.
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Fluffy Rice: Soft, fluffy rice absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce, enhancing each mouthful of chicken and sprouts.
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Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, this adds a light touch while soaking up flavors, making it a healthy sidekick.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread serves as a delightful contrast to the savory chicken, perfect for sopping up sauce.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the honey glaze, adding a satisfying texture to your meal.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette brings a burst of color and crunch, balancing the richness of the dish.
Imagine pairing this meal with a crisp, refreshing drink like a sparkling lemonade; it’s a delightful way to round out your culinary experience!
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Chardonnay: This white wine’s acidity beautifully offsets the dish’s sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor enjoyment.
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Berry Sorbet: A light and fruity dessert like berry sorbet cleanses the palate, making it a refreshing finish to your delicious dinner.
One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are bright green and firm to the touch. Avoid any that have yellowed leaves or dark spots all over, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh, well-formed sprouts will give you the best texture and flavor in your One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts.
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can keep your One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool down before sealing to ensure freshness!
Can I freeze this dish? How do I do it correctly?
Certainly! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a sealed freezer bag or an airtight container. It will stay good for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain delicious texture and flavor.
What should I do if my Brussels sprouts aren’t cooking as quickly?
If you find your Brussels sprouts taking longer to cook, it may help to slice them thinner if they’re whole. This increases the surface area and allows them to cook more evenly. It’s also essential to give them enough space in the pan; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, which means they won’t get that lovely crispness!
Are there any common allergies I should be aware of for this recipe?
Yes, there are a couple of things to keep in mind! The dish contains honey, which some may prefer to avoid due to dietary restrictions like diabetes or vegan choices. Additionally, if you’re cooking for someone with mustard allergies, you can easily substitute the whole grain mustard with a safe option or leave it out entirely in your One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts.
Can I use a different sauce if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
Very! If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, try using red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar for sweetness. Alternatively, a teriyaki or soy sauce-based marinade can also work wonders and provide a unique twist to your dish. Just remember to adjust the sweetness level as needed!
One-Pan Ground Chicken and Brussels Sprouts: Dinner Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and whole grain mustard. Whisk the mixture until well combined and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the shaved Brussels sprouts and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they turn vibrant green and start to soften. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula. Brown one side thoroughly for about 3-4 minutes without stirring. Once the bottom is nicely browned, continue cooking, stirring occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink, about 4-5 more minutes.
- Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the cooked ground chicken, stirring well. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken evenly.
- Return the sautéed Brussels sprouts to the skillet, mixing them gently with the chicken and sauce. Cook for another minute to heat everything through.
- Taste the final mixture and adjust the seasoning with black pepper and kosher salt to your preference. Serve warm over rice or cauliflower rice.
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