Pin it This lazy gourmet chicken vegetable one pot meal hits all the sweet spots for weeknight cooking The chicken comes out juicy and the mix of colorful vegetables turns melt in your mouth tender every time The balanced mustard balsamic seasoning makes it taste like a labor of love but you barely spend any time in the kitchen
I started making this after long days when I wanted a comforting meal without spending hours by the stove My family loves the tangy mustard kick and how every bite is packed with flavor and color
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: are the juiciest quick cooking cut Choose ones with the least visible fat for best texture
- Baby potatoes: add creamy comfort Select those with unblemished skins for quick prep
- Broccoli florets: bring fresh crunch Use firm right green heads with compact florets
- Red bell pepper: gives a sweet note and pop of color Look for ones that feel heavy with shiny skin
- Small red onion: adds subtle sweetness when roasted Choose onions with tight skin and no soft spots
- Olive oil: pulls together the flavor Pick extra virgin olive oil for richness
- Dijon mustard: gives tangy depth Go for a smooth consistency and classic flavor
- Balsamic vinegar: brings a gentle acidity Dark aged vinegar makes for a more mellow taste
- Garlic powder: infuses well Choose powder that smells fresh not musty
- Dried thyme and oregano: layer on classic herb notes Both should be fragrant when you open the jar
- Smoked paprika: gives a subtle woodsy undertone Choose Spanish smoked for authenticity
- Salt and black pepper: make everything pop Always taste and adjust if needed
- Fresh parsley: adds a final fresh touch Use bright green leaves
- Lemon wedges for serving: bring brightness Always use freshly cut lemons for best zing
Instructions
- Make the Seasoning Sauce:
- In a large bowl combine the olive oil Dijon mustard balsamic vinegar garlic powder dried thyme dried oregano smoked paprika salt and black pepper Blend thoroughly with a whisk until you have a smooth cohesive mixture That bit of vigorous whisking helps the mustard emulsify the oil and vinegar giving every ingredient a balanced coat
- Toss and Coat Chicken and Vegetables:
- Add the chicken thighs baby potatoes broccoli florets red bell pepper and red onion to the bowl Use clean hands or a large spoon to toss everything well Make sure each piece of chicken and every vegetable chunk is glistening with the sauce This makes sure you get even flavor and helps the vegetables roast properly
- Cook in the Instant Pot:
- Pour a quarter cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot to create steam and prevent sticking Gently tip the coated chicken and vegetables into the pot Secure the lid and set to Manual high pressure for ten minutes Once finished use a quick release method to let out steam Switch to Sauté mode and cook another three to five minutes if you need to reduce extra liquid This locks in that restaurant style glossy finish and deepens the flavors
- Or Cook in the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to three seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Arrange the coated chicken and veggies in a single layer in the air fryer basket For best results do not overcrowd Cook for eighteen to twenty minutes giving the basket a shake at the halfway point This helps everything brown evenly and gets the chicken perfectly tender
- Serve with Fresh Garnishes:
- When cooked serve the hot chicken and vegetables straightaway Scatter with chopped parsley and tuck in a few fresh lemon wedges at the side Squeeze lemon over each plate for a bright lift right at the table
Pin it My absolute favorite part is the balance of mustard and balsamic The first time I made this my daughter licked her plate and declared it a new family classic It has been our quick fix after soccer practice or a cozy Sunday dinner ever since
Storage Tips
Let any leftovers cool completely then store in an airtight container in the fridge The potatoes and chicken hold up well for up to three days Warm leftovers gently in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave for a fast lunch
Ingredient Substitutions
Salmon fillet chunks or pressed tofu work in place of chicken for a different flavor profile Use hearty vegetables like carrots or cauliflower if you do not have potatoes Broccolini or green beans are easy swaps for broccoli Just cut everything to similar sizes so they cook evenly
Serving Suggestions
Bread on the side is always a hit Try serving with warm crusty baguette or a scoop of rice This dish is also perfect as a filling for big wraps the next day
Cultural and Seasonal Context
One pot meals like this are a favorite in many busy kitchens across the world A modern twist on a French farmhouse tray bake this dish takes on extra appeal in winter or spring when broccoli is crisp and potatoes are at their sweetest For cozy fall versions swap in squash and sweet potatoes
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap broccoli with asparagus during spring Try halved Brussels sprouts or root vegetables for winter Fresh cherry tomatoes tossed in at the end boost summer flavor
Success Stories
Friends have texted me that they finally convinced picky eaters to love their veggies with this recipe A neighbor once borrowed my Instant Pot just to make it for her family and now keeps the seasoning blend ready in her fridge
Freezer Meal Conversion
This dish freezes well Once cooked let cool then portion into airtight freezer bags or containers Freeze up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth for best results
Pin it This dish is a true lifesaver for busy days when home cooked comfort meets full flavor A sprinkle of parsley and squeeze of lemon brings it all together perfectly
Recipe FAQs
- → What are the best vegetables to use?
Baby potatoes, broccoli, bell pepper, and red onion work well, but carrots and cauliflower are great options too.
- → Can I swap the chicken for another protein?
Yes, salmon or tofu can be substituted for chicken thighs for a unique take on this dish.
- → How do I ensure everything cooks evenly?
Cut potatoes and vegetables to similar sizes for uniform cooking and perfect texture.
- → What tips help keep cleanup minimal?
Prepare everything in one bowl for marinating, and cook using the air fryer or Instant Pot for easy cleanup.
- → How should I garnish before serving?
Top with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges for brightness and an appealing finish.