Easy, One pan Chicken, green bean and tomato dish
Easy, ONE pan Chicken, green bean and tomato dish! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by Lori Faren on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 45 min
Cost: $10.65 total, $2.66 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
- 1 lb Green Beans (pre‑cut, trimmed; can use fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar (regular balsamic)
- 0.5 cup Chicken Broth (low‑sodium)
- 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless, excess fat trimmed)
- to taste pinch Salt (kosher salt preferred)
- to taste pinch Black Pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Halve the cherry tomatoes, trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs, and set the pre‑cut green beans aside.
Time: PT5M
Sear the Chicken
Heat the skillet over medium‑high heat and add the chicken thighs. Cook for about 5 minutes, turning once, until browned on both sides.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: medium‑high
Add Liquid Base
Pour in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: medium
Season
Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Time: PT1M
Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the balsamic broth for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: low simmer
Add Vegetables
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and green beans, distributing them evenly around the chicken.
Time: PT2M
Finish Cooking
Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 10 minutes until the green beans are tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Time: PT10M
Temperature: low simmer
Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally garnish with fresh herbs or serve over a small portion of rice if desired.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 200
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 8g
- Fat
- 10g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Low‑carb, Gluten‑free, High‑protein, Dairy‑free
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cherry Tomatoes: Diced regular tomatoes
- Instead of Green Beans: Fresh green beans, trimmed
- Instead of Balsamic Vinegar: Red wine vinegar with a pinch of sugar
- Instead of Chicken Broth: Water + bouillon cube
- Instead of Chicken Thighs: Chicken breasts
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
- Spatula or Tongs
- Measuring Spoons
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Small Bowl (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Searing the chicken to develop flavor.
- Simmering the balsamic broth to thicken the sauce.
- Ensuring the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use pre‑cut green beans to shave minutes off prep time.
- A drizzle of olive oil before searing adds extra richness without changing the flavor profile.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Troubleshooting
Sauce is too thin.
Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes or add an extra teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to concentrate flavor.
Chicken is not fully cooked.
Continue simmering until the internal temperature reaches 165°F; cover the pan briefly to speed up cooking.
Green beans are overcooked and mushy.
Add the green beans later, after the first 5‑7 minutes of simmering, to retain crispness.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat gently on the stovetop.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Pre‑cut the tomatoes and trim the chicken a day ahead; store separately in the fridge.
- Prepare the balsamic‑broth mixture in advance and refrigerate; add to the pan when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of one‑pan balsamic chicken with green beans and tomatoes in American healthy‑eating cuisine?
One‑pan meals have become popular in modern American cooking as a time‑saving strategy for busy families and fitness enthusiasts. Combining lean protein with low‑carb vegetables reflects the recent focus on balanced, nutrient‑dense meals.
What are the traditional regional variations of this low‑carb chicken and green bean dish in American cuisine?
While the core concept is simple, variations may include adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or swapping balsamic for lemon‑herb marinades. Some Southern versions use a light gravy instead of balsamic, and West Coast adaptations often incorporate quinoa or cauliflower rice.
How is this one‑pan chicken, green bean, and tomato dish traditionally served in American meal‑prep culture?
It is typically portioned into individual containers for the week, sometimes paired with a small serving of brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. The dish is enjoyed hot or reheated, making it a staple for lunch or dinner in fitness‑focused households.
What occasions or celebrations is this low‑carb chicken skillet commonly associated with in American health‑focused culture?
It is popular for weekday dinner, meal‑prep Sundays, and as a post‑workout protein source. It also appears at casual get‑togethers where quick, nutritious food is appreciated.
What makes this one‑pan balsamic chicken dish special or unique in American low‑carb cuisine?
The use of balsamic vinegar adds a sweet‑tart depth without extra carbs, while the single‑pan method reduces cleanup and preserves nutrients. The combination of juicy chicken thighs with crisp green beans and bright tomatoes offers a balanced flavor profile.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making one‑pan balsamic chicken with green beans and tomatoes?
Common errors include overcrowding the pan, which prevents proper searing; not allowing the sauce to reduce, resulting in a watery dish; and under‑cooking the chicken. Follow the searing and simmering times closely for best results.
Why does this recipe use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a low‑carb dinner?
Chicken thighs stay moist and flavorful even after trimming excess fat, making them more forgiving for quick skillet cooking. They also provide a richer taste that pairs well with the balsamic reduction.
Can I make this one‑pan chicken, green bean, and tomato dish ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare it up to two days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. The sauce may thicken; add a splash of broth when reheating if needed.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the dish is done cooking?
The chicken should be golden‑brown on the outside and no longer pink inside, with an internal temperature of 165°F. The green beans should be tender‑crisp, and the tomatoes should be softened but still holding shape. The sauce should coat the ingredients lightly.
What does the YouTube channel Lori Faren specialize in?
The YouTube channel Lori Faren focuses on fitness‑friendly meal‑prep, quick healthy recipes, and practical cooking tips for active lifestyles, often emphasizing low‑carb and high‑protein meals.
How does the YouTube channel Lori Faren's approach to healthy cooking differ from other fitness cooking channels?
Lori Faren emphasizes ultra‑simple, one‑pan meals that require minimal equipment and prep time, catering to busy professionals. She often uses pre‑prepared ingredients to streamline cooking, whereas many other channels focus on more elaborate techniques.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
