Elevate your weeknight dinner with this mouthwatering balsamic chicken!
I love how the balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard create a perfect balance of flavors that coat the juicy, tender chicken. The addition of dried oregano, basil, and fresh rosemary sprigs elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Plus, it’s easy to make and comes together in just 30 minutes!
I love serving it with a side of rice to soak up all the delicious sauce!
Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Chicken
Gourmet Experience: This recipe offers a gourmet dining experience at home. It’s perfect for impressing guests.
Time-Saver: Despite its complex taste, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare. You can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Pairing: The dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from rice and potatoes to vegetables.
One-Pan Wonder: This recipe simplifies cleanup by using a single skillet for both searing the chicken and creating the sauce.
Ingredients
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish. They’re lean, healthy, and ready to absorb all those delicious flavors.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: They enhance the natural taste of the chicken.
- Olive Oil: It gives the chicken a golden-brown crust and helps the onions caramelize.
- Onion and Garlic: They provide a savory base for the sauce.
- Balsamic Vinegar: It adds depth, richness, and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
- Honey: It balances the acidity of the vinegar and gives the sauce a glossy sheen.
- Dijon Mustard: It adds a subtle kick and helps emulsify the sauce.
- Dried Oregano and Basil: They bring a Mediterranean flair and earthy aroma to the party.
- Fresh Rosemary: It infuses the dish with a piney freshness that complements the balsamic glaze.
How to Make Balsamic Chicken
This recipe has a gourmet feel, but it’s easy enough for beginners.
1. Season the chicken. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the chicken. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the aromatics. Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
4. Prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, oregano, and basil. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer the chicken. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over each piece. Add the rosemary sprigs. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
6. Thicken the sauce. Remove the chicken to a serving platter. Increase the heat to medium-high and simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Spoon the balsamic sauce and onions over the chicken.
7. Serve. Serve the balsamic glazed chicken warm with your favorite sides like rice, potatoes or vegetables. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Balsamic Chicken
Following these tips and tricks will make your chicken even more memorable.
- Let it marinate. If time allows, marinate the chicken in the balsamic sauce for 2-4 hours in the fridge to infuse it with even more flavor.
- Don’t skimp on the seasoning. Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides before cooking to enhance its taste.
- Quality is key. Use a high-quality, aged balsamic vinegar for the best flavor and consistency in the glaze.
- Have fun and experiment. Try adding sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet. For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes.
- Serve it with your favorite sides. Balsamic chicken pairs well with sides that can soak up the flavorful sauce, such as steamed rice, quinoa, couscous, or even pasta. Round out the meal with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
How to Store
Keep leftover balsamic chicken fresh with these tips.
To Store: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place the chicken in an air-tight container and cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
To Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Place the chicken in an air-tight container or freezer bag. Press out as much air as possible, and seal it tightly. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
To Reheat: To reheat, place it in a covered dish and heat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Or, you can reheat it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.