Discover the Ultimate Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is a delightful and versatile dish that combines the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar with the tender, juicy goodness of chicken. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, flavorful meals that are easy to prepare. The history of balsamic vinegar in cooking can be traced back to ancient Italy, where it was prized for its complex, sweet-and-sour flavor profile. In this dish, the balsamic vinegar marinade infuses the chicken with a mouthwatering taste, making it a perfect choice for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

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Ingredients for Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

To create this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe, you’ll need the following essential 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)

The chicken breasts provide a lean and protein-rich base for the dish, while the balsamic vinegar and olive oil create a flavorful marinade. Honey is added to balance the acidity of the vinegar, and the garlic, oregano, and thyme provide a delightful blend of aromatics that elevates the overall taste.

Preparation Steps for Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

To prepare the Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is an important first step to ensure even and thorough cooking of the chicken.

Step 2: Make Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This marinade will infuse the chicken with a delightful blend of flavors.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, turning the chicken to coat it evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for even more flavor.

Step 4: Bake

Once the chicken is marinated, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is cooked through and juicy.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation (optional).

Serving Suggestions

The Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus, for a healthy and well-balanced meal. Alternatively, you can serve it with fluffy rice or a fresh, crisp salad. For a more indulgent option, the chicken also works well in wraps, sandwiches, or on top of pasta. When it comes to wine pairings, a light and fruity red wine or a dry white wine would complement the flavors of the dish nicely.

Variations of Balsamic Baked Chicken

While the Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. For example, you can swap out the chicken breasts for chicken thighs or even turkey for a different protein option. To change up the marinade, you could experiment with different types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, or try adding a touch of Dijon mustard or fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. For a global twist, you could incorporate Mediterranean flavors by adding lemon zest, kalamata olives, and feta cheese, or take the dish in an Asian-inspired direction with the addition of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame seeds.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

The Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe is not only delicious but also a nutritious option. Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Balsamic vinegar and olive oil are both known for their health benefits, as they are rich in antioxidants and can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Honey adds a touch of sweetness while also providing some antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. By choosing a balanced and wholesome meal like this, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dinner that supports your overall health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is balsamic chicken?

Balsamic chicken is a dish where chicken is marinated and baked in a balsamic vinegar-based marinade. The balsamic vinegar gives the chicken a sweet and tangy flavor.

How long is baked chicken breast good for?

Properly stored, baked chicken breast can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3-4 months in the freezer.

How do you cook balsamic chicken in a slow cooker?

To cook balsamic chicken in a slow cooker, simply place the chicken and the balsamic marinade ingredients in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.

How many calories are in balsamic chicken?

The number of calories in balsamic chicken can vary depending on the specific recipe and portion size, but a typical serving (about 4 oz of chicken) of this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe contains around 200-250 calories.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Healthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
• Ranch Chicken Crock Pot
• Fresh Peach Fritters

Conclusion

The Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is a delightful and versatile dish that combines the bold flavors of balsamic vinegar with the tender, juicy goodness of chicken. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. With its flavor-packed marinade, simple preparation, and various serving suggestions, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the mouthwatering experience of Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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