Name: Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces 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)

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This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a delightful and simple way to elevate your dinner game. With its tangy balsamic marinade, this dish not only promises flavor but also requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why Make This Recipe

The Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, the combination of balsamic vinegar and honey creates a sweet and tangy marinade that beautifully complements the chicken, resulting in a succulent and juicy dish. Moreover, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, with most of the time spent allowing the chicken to marinate. Additionally, it can be paired with a variety of sides, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

How to Make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

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)

Directions

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 the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
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 results.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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.
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.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
Prepare any desired sides while the chicken rests.
Slice the chicken into thick pieces for serving.
Arrange the sliced chicken on a serving platter and drizzle with pan juices.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa.
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.

How to Serve Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

This dish is best served sliced on a platter, drizzled with the flavorful pan juices that develop during baking. Consider pairing it with a green salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a lighter alternative, serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. Fresh basil leaves add an appealing visual touch and a hint of freshness.

How to Store Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

To store any leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This ensures that you can still savor the delicious flavors of the dish even on busy days.

Tips to Make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Marinate Longer: For the best results, marinate the chicken for 2-4 hours. This will ensure that the flavors penetrate deeply, making the chicken even more delicious.
Use Fresh Herbs: If available, substitute dried oregano and thyme with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Don’t Skip the Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help maintain its juiciness.

Variation

For a twist on this recipe, consider adding sliced vegetables, like bell peppers and onions, to the baking dish. They will absorb the marinade’s flavor and roast alongside the chicken, creating a complete one-pan meal. Alternatively, you could substitute the chicken with tofu or a similar plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They will offer a slightly different flavor and texture but will still be delicious when prepared with the balsamic marinade.

2. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While marinating is not mandatory, it significantly enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken. If you’re short on time, a quick marinate for 30 minutes can still yield tasty results.

3. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken in a sealed plastic bag before cooking. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.