Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast: A Delicious and Easy Dinner Recipe
This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe offers a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner option featuring tender chicken breasts marinated in a tangy balsamic vinegar and honey mixture, then baked to juicy perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep, this dish is complemented with aromatic herbs and a hint of garlic, making it both delicious and healthy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 4 hours marinating)
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes to 4 hours 40 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 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
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Whisk together until well blended and honey dissolves completely.
- Season the Marinade: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as preferred.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place 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, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours.
- Preheat the Oven: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line a baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish. 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 for extra moisture.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Slice the chicken into thick pieces, arrange on a serving platter, and drizzle with pan juices. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve with your choice of sides like roasted vegetables or quinoa.
- Storage and Reheating: Allow any leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven until warmed through.
Notes
- Marinating for at least 2 hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (75°C).
- For extra caramelization, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Substitute fresh herbs for dried if available, using about 3 times the amount.
- This dish pairs well with quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Keywords: Balsamic baked chicken, easy chicken recipe, healthy baked chicken, dinner recipes, marinated chicken breast, oven-baked chicken
