Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, tangy balsamic glaze that elevates the flavor to new heights. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also brings a restaurant-quality experience to your dining table. The glossy finish of the balsamic reduction, paired with the aromatic herbs, creates an irresistible dish that is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Balsamic Chicken for its perfect balance of flavors and ease of preparation. The sweetness of the balsamic vinegar complements the savory notes of the chicken, creating a symphony of tastes that will satisfy your palate. This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal cooking skills, making it ideal for busy weeknights or novice cooks. Additionally, it fits well into a variety of dietary lifestyles, being high in protein and low in carbs, making it a great option for those following low-carb or keto diets.
Tips and Tricks
1. Marinate for Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Searing is Key: Start by searing the chicken on high heat to lock in the juices before finishing it off in the oven or on the stovetop.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the dish. Add them to the marinade for a more robust flavor.
4. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the balsamic glaze until it reduces to your desired consistency before drizzling over the chicken.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to enhance the flavor. If you have leftover balsamic sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Cooked chicken can also be refrigerated for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
- Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier option.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or basil to change up the flavor profile.
- Vegetable Addition: Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini during cooking for a one-pan meal.
How to Serve
Serve the Balsamic Chicken on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Drizzle the balsamic reduction generously over the chicken for an appealing presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added freshness.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a glass of Pinot Noir, which complements the tangy glaze beautifully. For side dishes, consider garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a mixed greens salad. For dessert, a light berry sorbet would provide a refreshing finish to the meal.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in a skillet over medium heat while adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet: A good quality skillet for searing the chicken.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness.
- Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken.
- Whisk: To mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use a vegan balsamic glaze. For a dairy-free version, simply ensure no dairy is added to sides or sauces. Those with nut allergies can enjoy this dish as it contains no nuts.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, consider adding roasted apples or pears to the dish for a seasonal twist. In the summer, fresh basil and tomatoes can be added, making it a refreshing meal perfect for warmer weather.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use other types of vinegar?: Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor will differ.
- How long should I cook the chicken?: Chicken breasts typically take around 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Can I double the recipe?: Absolutely! Just ensure your cooking space allows for it, and use a larger skillet if needed.
Balsamic Chicken
Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich, tangy balsamic glaze that elevates the flavor to new heights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until thickened and chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 355Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 102mgSodium 172mgCarbohydrates 24gFiber 0gSugar 22gProtein 38g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Balsamic Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that is sure to impress anyone at your table. With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, it becomes a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and sides to make this dish your own. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!
