Delicious Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast Recipe

The rich and savory taste of balsamic glazed chicken breast makes this dish a staple in many households, merging simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. This recipe brings together the flavors of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and honey, creating a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.

One evening, after a bustling day filled with errands and meetings, I arrived home craving something quick yet decadent. I recalled a similar dish my mother used to prepare on cold winter nights, filling the kitchen with its inviting, tangy aroma. Inspired by her version, I set to concoct something that echoed those comforting flavors, and the dish remains a family favorite to this day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This balsamic glazed chicken breast recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it offers a sophisticated taste with minimal ingredients, featuring the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. The glaze is versatile and can be used on other proteins like pork or tofu, catering to varied palates. Additionally, its elegant presentation makes it suitable for entertaining guests without the stress of a complicated recipe.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility with ingredients. Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor profile. If you need a substitute, a balsamic vinegar reduction can work due to its thickness and sweetness. Honey provides the sweetness, but you can also use maple syrup if preferred. Fresh garlic is recommended, but in a pinch, minced garlic from a jar will suffice.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. Season each side with salt and pepper.

Step 2

In an oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown.

Step 3

Remove the skillet from heat. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the chicken breasts in the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 4

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Spoon additional glaze from the pan over the chicken to enhance flavor.

Storage Options

Store leftover balsamic glazed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

To accommodate dietary preferences or add a flavor twist, consider these variations: Replace the honey with agave nectar for a vegan option. Season with rosemary or thyme for a fragrant herb infusion. You can also swap chicken for tofu for a vegetarian alternative, keeping the cooking process similar but adjusting cooking times as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative, offering a richer flavor and juicier texture. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary due to different thicknesses, so checking the internal temperature for doneness is recommended.

What side dishes complement this recipe?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad to round out your meal. The savory glaze also complements grains like quinoa or rice for added texture.

How do I thicken the glaze if it’s too runny?
If your glaze is runny after cooking, remove the chicken and return the skillet to the stovetop over medium heat. Simmer the sauce, allowing it to reduce and thicken to your liking. Stir frequently to prevent burning, and once it’s the desired consistency, pour it back over the chicken.

Delicious Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast Recipe

This mouth-watering balsamic glazed chicken breast recipe is perfect for any dinner occasion. Tender chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction.

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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 lbs chicken breasts skinless and boneless
• ▢ 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• ▢ 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
• ▢ 2 tbsp honey
• ▢ 1 tsp garlic powder
• ▢ 1 tsp dried thyme
• ▢ 1 tsp salt or to taste
• ▢ 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade and transfer to a baking dish.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Brush with reserved marinade halfway through cooking.
• Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Pair this dish with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables to complement the sweet and tangy flavors.