Oven-Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe – Quick and Delicious!

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner? This Oven-Baked Balsamic Chicken recipe is the perfect choice! With tender, juicy chicken coated in a tangy balsamic glaze, it’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing a meal for yourself, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Cover with plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness. Place the chicken breasts in a 9×13-inch oven-safe baking dish.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, basil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until well combined.
4. Pour the balsamic marinade over the chicken breasts and flip each piece to coat them evenly. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish.
5. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This oven-baked balsamic chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The balsamic vinegar and honey create a tangy, slightly sweet glaze, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, this dish is a winner for any meal.

Tips

• Pound the chicken evenly: Flattening the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks evenly, preventing parts from being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
• Marinate the chicken: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour for even more flavor. However, it’s not essential for great results.
• Check the chicken’s temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe and tender meat.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be used instead of dried basil for a different flavor.
• Vegetable substitutions: Swap the cherry tomatoes with sliced bell peppers or zucchini for a varied dish.
• Honey alternatives: If you prefer, substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave for a different sweetness profile.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in pieces will take longer to cook—about 30-35 minutes.

What can I serve this with? This balsamic chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it over rice or pasta for a hearty meal.

Can I make this dish in advance? You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken a few hours ahead of time, storing it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It makes for an easy, hands-off dinner prep.

Serving

Serve this balsamic chicken hot with your choice of sides. Roasted vegetables, a side of quinoa, or a simple green salad make great accompaniments.

Suggestions

For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle the leftover balsamic glaze from the baking dish over the chicken before serving. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory finish, while a light lemon wedge can brighten the dish.