Hey there, friend! I am so excited to share with you one of my absolute favorite recipes: Balsamic Chicken. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, not just for its mouthwatering flavors but also for the countless memories I’ve made while whipping it up.
I remember the first time I made Balsamic Chicken. I had a few friends over for dinner, and as the aroma filled the kitchen, they couldn’t contain their excitement. The tangy balsamic vinegar mixed with honey, garlic, and herbs created this magnificent scent that had us all eagerly anticipating dinner. When I served the dish, it vanished in minutes – and I’ve been making it ever since! There’s just something about the combination of juicy chicken and vibrant veggies, all drizzled with a tangy glaze. Trust me, this recipe is going to become a favorite in your home too!
What’s in Balsamic Chicken?
Let’s break down the ingredients for this delightful dish so you know what’s going into it:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: At 1.5 lbs, this is the star of the show! I love chicken because it cooks up so tender and takes on flavors brilliantly.
Balsamic vinegar: This 1/4 cup of tangy goodness brings that sweet-and-sour zing to the dish. A high-quality balsamic makes a noticeable difference. My go-to is usually a bottle I picked up from an artisanal store, but store-bought works just as well!
Olive oil: Also at 1/4 cup, this oil not only helps with marinating but also keeps the chicken juicy as it cooks. A good extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely depth.
Honey: Just 2 tablespoons of this golden syrup sweetens the deal and balances the acidity of the vinegar.
Garlic: I mean, who doesn’t love garlic?! I use 2 cloves, minced, to provide that irresistible aroma and flavor.
Dried oregano and thyme: These common herbs add a warm, aromatic flavor with just 1 teaspoon each.
Salt and pepper: To taste, of course! A little seasoning elevates this dish to new heights.
Bell pepper: One bell pepper cut into chunks adds some crunch and color. Feel free to choose any color you love!
Onion: Sliced onion adds sweetness and depth—a must for any savory dish.
Mushrooms (optional): I love adding a cup of quartered mushrooms for an earthy flavor, but you can skip them if that’s not your thing.
Cooking oil (optional): If you’re frying the chicken in a skillet, a little extra oil does wonders to prevent sticking.
Is Balsamic Chicken Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This dish is flavorful and packed with nutrients. Let’s chat about some of the health benefits:
Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken is essential for building muscles and keeping you fuller for longer.
Balsamic vinegar: Packed with antioxidants, it can help improve heart health when used in moderation. Plus, it’s low in calories—win!
Bell peppers: These colorful veggies are not just pretty; they’re a great source of vitamins A and C, which are fantastic for your immune system.
Onions: They come with numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, they just taste great!
Now, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that while delicious, this dish does contain oil and honey, which means moderation is key. But when enjoyed as a part of a balanced diet, it’s a fantastic meal option!
Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, quartered (optional)
– 2 tablespoons cooking oil for frying (optional)
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for family dinner or meal prep.
How to Make Balsamic Chicken?
Ready to dive into the cooking process? Here we go!
1. In a large bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined—don’t skip this step; it’s where all the magic begins!
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for even more flavor!
3. Preheat your grill (or skillet) over medium-high heat. If you’re going with a skillet, add a splash of cooking oil to sizzle up that chicken!
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade) and place it in the hot skillet or on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Pro tip: Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly done chicken!
5. In the last few minutes of cooking, toss in the bell peppers, onion, and mushrooms. Sauté or grill until they are tender and slightly charred. Trust me; this finishing touch makes all the difference!
6. Once cooked, remove from heat and let the chicken and veggies rest for a few minutes before serving. What you’ll have is a plate full of flavorful goodness!
Serving Suggestions and Extra Tips
Now that you’ve made this delightful dish, here are some ideas for serving up Balsamic Chicken:
– Serve it over a fluffy bed of rice, or if you’re feeling healthy, toss it on a mound of leafy greens for a fresh salad.
– Love fresh herbs? Sprinkle some parsley or basil over the top right before serving to really brighten up the flavors.
– Don’t forget the bread! Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any of that delicious balsamic glaze so nothing goes to waste.
I can’t wait for you to try this Balsamic Chicken recipe! I promise it’ll be a hit, whether you’re cooking for yourself, friends, or family. Share your experiences and how it turned out for you—I’m always eager to hear about your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!
