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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast Recipe

4.2 from 66 reviews

This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe offers a delicious and easy way to prepare tender and flavorful chicken breasts. Marinated in a tangy blend of balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and herbs, then baked to juicy perfection, this dish makes a perfect weeknight dinner served alongside your favorite sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 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

Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Whisk them together until thoroughly blended and the honey has dissolved.
  2. Season the Marinade: Add salt and pepper to taste to the marinade and whisk again to mix evenly.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
  4. Refrigerate to Marinate: Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse the meat.
  5. Preheat Oven: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Prepare Baking Dish: Line a baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  7. Arrange Chicken to Bake: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken for extra flavor.
  8. Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Optionally, baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through baking for added moisture.
  9. Rest the Chicken: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps retain the juices.
  10. Serve: Slice the chicken into thick pieces and arrange on a serving platter. Drizzle with the pan juices and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm with sides like roasted vegetables or quinoa.
  11. Storage: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or oven until warmed through.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken longer enhances the flavor and tenderness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Basting halfway through baking keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
  • You can substitute fresh herbs for dried if preferred; adjust quantities accordingly.
  • This recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or a green salad.

Keywords: balsamic chicken,baked chicken breast,easy chicken dinner,balsamic vinegar chicken,healthy chicken recipe