Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breasts – A Family Favorite
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breasts are a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is both elegant and simple, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The tender chicken is coated with a glossy balsamic glaze. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and creates a wholesome and satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients for Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breasts
This recipe features fresh and simple ingredients that deliver bold flavors:
- Chicken Breasts: Lean and protein-packed serve as the base for this dish.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a tangy depth of flavor and forms the base of the glaze.
- Honey: Balances the acidity of the vinegar with a touch of sweetness.
- Dijon Mustard: Enhances the glaze with subtle sharpness.
- Garlic: Provides an aromatic base and infuses the chicken with flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme for garnish and a fragrant finish.
Instructions
Cooking this dish is straightforward; yet, the results are impressive:
Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper to allow the flavors to penetrate. Sear the chicken in a skillet to achieve a golden-brown crust. Then, finish cooking gently to retain juiciness. Meanwhile, reduce balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard into a glossy glaze. Coat the chicken with the glaze and simmer briefly to meld the flavors. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Balsamic Glazed Chicken
- Don’t Skip the Marinating Step: Marinating the chicken enhances the flavor and keeps it tender.
- Balance the Glaze: Adjust the sweetness or acidity of the glaze by adding more honey or vinegar to taste.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to lock in juices.
What to Serve With Balsamic Glazed Chicken
This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A crispy, caramelized vegetable side.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful glaze.
- Garlic Butter Green Beans: A simple and fresh accompaniment.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.
Equipment for Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breasts
Using the right tools makes preparing this dish effortless:
- Marinating dish with lid for infusing the chicken with flavor.
- Skillet for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- Small saucepan for reducing the balsamic glaze.
- Meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking.
- Tongs for easy flipping and handling of the chicken.
Other Recipes to Try
If you love this Balsamic Glazed Chicken, you’ll enjoy these delicious recipes from Sisters Know Best:
- Moist Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast – Perfectly tender and juicy chicken every time.
- Kung Pao Chicken Recipe – A spicy and bold take on homemade Chinese food.
- General Tso’s Crockpot Chicken – A savory slow-cooked dish with rich, tangy flavors.
For more balsamic-inspired dishes, explore The Spruce Eats’ Top Balsamic Recipes.
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breasts are a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors. They’re a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to impress. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying!
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breasts
Equipment
- Skillet for searing and cooking the chicken evenly
- Small saucepan for preparing the balsamic glaze
- Meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature
- Tongs for flipping the chicken breasts during cooking
- Marinating dish with lid for infusing the chicken with flavor
Ingredients
- 4 - 6 Chicken breasts boneless and skinless (6–8 oz each)
- Olive oil for searing the chicken
- Salt and black pepper to season
- Garlic minced (3–4 cloves)
- Balsamic vinegar 1 cup
- Honey 4 tablespoons
- Dijon mustard 2 teaspoons
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Marinate in olive oil and minced garlic for 20–30 minutes in a mixing bowl or dish.
- Prepare the Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes).
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 10–12 minutes).
- Glaze the Chicken: Pour the balsamic glaze over the chicken breasts in the skillet. Allow it to coat the chicken evenly while simmering for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Customize the Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a touch of heat.
- Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.