Delicious Balsamic Chicken Recipe A Power Dish
Table of Contents
Introduction
Have you ever wondered why some chicken recipes stand out, leaving your taste buds craving more? The secret might lie in the marinade. In this Balsamic Chicken recipe, we’ll uncover the transformative power of a simple yet sophisticated blend of ingredients that will take your dinner game to new heights. Get ready to experience a juicy, tender chicken that’s bursting with a balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients List
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
For a healthier twist, you can substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Lemon juice or red wine vinegar can also be used in place of the balsamic vinegar, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Timing
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour to 1 hour and 35 minutes
This Balsamic Chicken recipe is relatively quick, with a total time of just over an hour, including the marinating period. The hands-on preparation time is minimal, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large resealable bag or shallow baking dish, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the baking dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure even marination.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange it in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Discard the used marinade.
Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
Step 5: Broil (Optional)
For a golden-brown, caramelized finish, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 260 per serving
- Total Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Dietary Fiber: 0 g
- Sugars: 7 g
- Protein: 35 g
This Balsamic Chicken recipe is a lean and nutritious option, providing a good source of protein with minimal fat and carbohydrates. The balsamic vinegar and herbs add flavor without the need for excessive seasoning or sauces.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this Balsamic Chicken recipe even healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the Brown Sugar: Use only 1 tablespoon of brown sugar in the marinade to lower the overall sugar content.
- Opt for Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: For a crunchier texture, coat the chicken in whole wheat breadcrumbs before baking.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Roast some vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or roasted potatoes, alongside the chicken for a complete and balanced meal.
- Serve with a Fresh Salad: Pair the Balsamic Chicken with a light, crisp salad dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette for a nutrient-dense side dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Balsamic Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Fluffy white or brown rice
- Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes
- Steamed or sautéed green vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans
- A fresh garden salad or a Mediterranean-inspired salad with greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers
- Crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious balsamic sauce
To add a touch of freshness, garnish the Balsamic Chicken with chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Balsamic Chicken turns out perfectly every time, be mindful of these common pitfalls:
- Overmarinating: While the chicken benefits from a 30-minute to 1-hour marinade, leaving it in the marinade for too long can result in a tough, rubbery texture.
- Overcrowding the Baking Dish: Arrange the chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet or in the baking dish to allow for even cooking and browning.
- Not Checking the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee it’s fully cooked and safe to consume.
- Skipping the Resting Period: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful final dish.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftover Balsamic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For maximum freshness, it’s best to store the chicken separately from any sauces or marinades.
To reheat the chicken, you can either place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave it in 30-second intervals until heated through. Be mindful not to overheat the chicken, as this can dry it out.
For longer-term storage, the Balsamic Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to serve, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
This Balsamic Chicken recipe is a flavor-packed, easy-to-prepare dinner that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its balance of sweet and tangy notes, this dish is a weeknight winner that can also be easily dressed up for special occasions. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!
FAQs
A: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a delicious and juicy alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, as thighs tend to take a bit longer to cook through.
B: How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the flavors of the balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful final dish. Avoid marinating for longer than 1 hour, as the acidic marinade can start to break down the chicken’s texture.
C: Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Balsamic Chicken in advance. Simply assemble the marinade and add the chicken to it, then refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the marinade, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to cook.
D: What side dishes pair well with Balsamic Chicken?
Balsamic Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, steamed or sautéed vegetables, and fresh salads. The tangy and slightly sweet flavors of the chicken complement starchy, leafy, and bright side dishes perfectly.
E: Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of balsamic?
Yes, you can substitute the balsamic vinegar with other types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but the marinade will still impart delicious, tangy notes to the chicken.
Print
Delicious Balsamic Chicken Recipe A Power Dish
- Total Time: 1 hour 1 minute
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy a delicious balsamic chicken dish that packs a powerful punch Easy prep flavorful marinade and tender results Perfect for a quick healthy meal
Ingredients
Instructions
In a large resealable bag or shallow baking dish, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved.
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the baking dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure even marination.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove the chicken from the marinade and arrange it in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Discard the used marinade. Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
For a golden-brown, caramelized finish, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinate: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 7g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
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