Balsamic Baked Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Balsamic baked chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. The tangy balsamic vinegar combined with honey and herbs creates a delicious marinade that keeps the chicken juicy and tender. This recipe is easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme until well blended and the honey is fully dissolved. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours.
3. Step 3: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
4. Step 4: Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil. Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the dish, spaced apart, and pour any remaining marinade over them.
5. Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Optionally, baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through baking for extra flavor.
6. Step 6: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice into thick pieces and drizzle with pan juices. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

• Marinate the chicken overnight for even deeper flavor.
• Swap dried herbs for fresh oregano and thyme if available, adding them just before baking.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle heat.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs for a juicier, more rustic version; adjust baking time accordingly.

Storage

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain juiciness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the marinated chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. This will give it a nice smoky flavor.

Is it necessary to let the chicken rest after baking?

Letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful when sliced.

Balsamic Baked Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 52 reviews

A flavorful and tender Balsamic Baked Chicken recipe featuring marinated boneless skinless chicken breasts baked to perfection with a tangy balsamic vinegar and honey glaze, infused with garlic and herbs. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep, served with your favorite sides.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time of 2-4 hours recommended)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Marinade

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, ensuring the honey dissolves completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours for best flavor.
3. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Prepare Chicken for Baking: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Line a baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, spaced evenly. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
5. Bake Chicken: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Optionally, baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through baking to keep it moist.
6. Rest Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for tender, juicy chicken.
7. Serve: Slice the chicken into thick pieces for serving. Arrange on a platter, drizzle with pan juices, and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve with sides such as roasted vegetables or quinoa.
8. Store Leftovers: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven until warmed through.

Notes

• Marinate chicken for at least 2 hours for deeper flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
• Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried if preferred—use triple the amount.
• Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
• Leftovers can also be shredded for salads or sandwiches.

Keywords: Balsamic chicken, baked chicken breast, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, balsamic vinegar marinade