Blueberry-Balsamic Glazed Chicken & Maple-Roasted Carrot Power Skillet
This sweet-savory skillet combines restaurant-worthy flair with pantry staples. Tender chicken absorbs a vibrant blueberry-balsamic reduction while carrots caramelize with maple warmth. With 25g protein per serving and zero complicated steps, it hits Pinterest’s crave for visually stunning, nourishing meals.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast cutlets (thin-sliced)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup (divided)
- 1 lb rainbow carrots (halved lengthwise)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss carrots with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp maple syrup, salt, and pepper on a sheet pan.
- Roast carrots for 18-20 minutes until caramelized at edges.
- Meanwhile, season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high.
- Sear chicken 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to plate.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add blueberries, balsamic vinegar, and 1 tbsp maple syrup. Simmer 5-7 minutes, crushing berries slightly, until thickened to glaze consistency.
- Return chicken to skillet, coating in glaze. Stir in rosemary.
- Plate chicken with roasted carrots. Drizzle skillet glaze over everything.
Chef's Note
For extra glossy glaze, add 1 tsp cornstarch slurry (1:1 water + starch) during simmer.
Make-Ahead Tips
Store cooked chicken and carrots separately for 3 days. Reheat with 1 tbsp water to refresh glaze.
Substitutions
Swap chicken for tempeh or turkey cutlets; use honey instead of maple syrup; substitute parsnips for carrots.