Description
Savory balsamic chicken promises a delightful culinary journey through rich, tangy flavors that dance on your palate. Succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty balsamic glaze will transport you to an Italian kitchen with one memorable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
Marinade and Seasoning:
- 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Extras and Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil (for searing)
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Craft a vibrant marinade by whisking balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard in a mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer chicken breasts into a sealed container or ziplock bag, then generously pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring complete and uniform coverage. Refrigerate for 30-120 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding olive oil to create a sizzling surface. Carefully place marinated chicken into the hot pan, cooking each side for approximately 6-7 minutes until a rich golden-brown exterior develops and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside momentarily. Pour remaining marinade into the pan, using a spatula to scrape up caramelized bits from the bottom. Allow sauce to simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes until it reaches a slightly thickened consistency.
- Gently return chicken to the pan, coating each piece with the concentrated balsamic reduction. Let it warm through for an additional minute, then plate and garnish with fresh parsley and a bright squeeze of lemon juice. Accompany with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice.
Notes
- Tenderize chicken breasts with a meat mallet before marinating to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Swap honey with agave nectar or brown sugar for vegan-friendly options, maintaining the sweet-tangy profile of the dish.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature, preventing overcooking and keeping chicken juicy and tender.
- Consider marinating overnight in the refrigerator for an intensified balsamic flavor that penetrates deeply into the meat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 347 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 270 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg