Discover the Best Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast Recipe Today!

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is the perfect solution when you’re craving a simple yet incredibly flavorful dinner. This dish takes just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, yet it delivers a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress. With the tangy bite of balsamic vinegar, the sweetness of honey, and the aromatic blend of herbs, this baked chicken recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients for Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

The beauty of this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe lies in its simplicity. You’ll need just a few basic ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor:

• 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
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

The combination of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey creates a delectable marinade that infuses the chicken with bold, tangy-sweet flavor. The garlic, oregano, and thyme add depth and complexity, while a sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the overall taste.

How to Make Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Preparing Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is a breeze, and the results are well worth the minimal effort.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly greasing a baking dish.
2. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Let the chicken sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken in the prepared baking dish and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve the chicken warm and enjoy!

Tips for Moist and Flavorful Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

To ensure your Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast turns out perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: The longer you can let the chicken marinate in the balsamic-honey mixture, the more time the flavors have to penetrate the meat. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but you can also marinate the chicken for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking the chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will result in juicy, tender chicken every time.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish, making sure they are not touching. This allows the chicken to bake evenly and prevents steaming.
• Baste the Chicken: For extra flavor and moisture, baste the chicken with the marinade a few times during the baking process.

Serving Suggestions for Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile option for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Some delicious accompaniments include:

• Roasted Vegetables: Toss a medley of your favorite vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and potatoes) in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them alongside the chicken.
• Quinoa or Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy quinoa or steamed rice to soak up the delicious balsamic-honey sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast.

For an extra special presentation, garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is not only delicious but also a healthy dinner option. A 4-ounce serving of the chicken provides approximately 180 calories, 32 grams of protein, and just 4 grams of fat. The balsamic vinegar and olive oil in the marinade offer anti-inflammatory benefits, while the herbs add antioxidants and other essential nutrients.

Incorporating lean chicken breast into your diet is an excellent way to support muscle growth, maintain a healthy weight, and fuel your body with high-quality protein. When paired with nutrient-dense side dishes, Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast becomes a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Grilled Balsamic Steak
• Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
• Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

FAQs About Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

What does balsamic vinegar do to chicken?

Balsamic vinegar adds a delicious tangy-sweet flavor to chicken. The acidity in the vinegar helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with rich, complex flavors. When used in a marinade, balsamic vinegar also helps to keep the chicken moist and juicy during the baking process.

Is it better to bake chicken at 350 or 400 in the oven?

For this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe, it’s best to bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C). The higher temperature helps to create a nice caramelized crust on the outside of the chicken while ensuring the inside remains tender and juicy. Baking at 350°F (175°C) may result in the chicken taking longer to cook and potentially drying out.

How do you bake chicken breasts so they don’t dry out?

There are a few key tips to prevent dry, overcooked chicken breasts:

• Marinate the chicken in a flavorful mixture like the balsamic-honey marinade used in this recipe. The marinade helps to keep the chicken moist and juicy.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is the safe minimum temperature without overcooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking dish, as this can lead to steaming and drying out the chicken.
• Baste the chicken a few times during the baking process to keep it moist.

Do I cover chicken breasts when baking in the oven?

For this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe, you do not need to cover the chicken while baking. Leaving the chicken uncovered allows the marinade to caramelize and create a delicious crust on the outside of the chicken. Covering the chicken can actually lead to steaming, which can make the texture less desirable.

Conclusion

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is the perfect solution for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner. With its irresistible balsamic-honey glaze and aromatic herb seasoning, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. By following the simple steps and incorporating a few key tips, you can enjoy juicy, tender chicken every time. So why not give this Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe a try tonight? Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you!

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