Description
Savor Mediterranean magic with this Balsamic Chicken, a sensational dish blending tangy vinegar and herb-infused chicken. Juicy, tender meat nestled with robust flavors promises a delightful culinary journey you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds/680 grams)
Marinade and Seasoning:
- ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Garnish and Serving:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (optional)
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil (for searing)
Instructions
- Combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard in a mixing vessel, whisking thoroughly to create a harmonious marinade.
- Transfer chicken breasts into a sealed container or shallow receptacle.
- Cascade the prepared marinade over the chicken, meticulously ensuring comprehensive coverage and penetration of flavors.
- Seal the container and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the marinade to infuse the meat with rich, tangy essence.
- Position a large skillet over medium-high heat and introduce olive oil, creating a sizzling cooking environment.
- Carefully place marinated chicken into the heated skillet, allowing each piece to develop a golden-brown exterior through even cooking.
- Cook chicken approximately 6-7 minutes per side, verifying doneness through internal temperature reaching 165°F or visual indicators of complete preparation.
- Extract chicken from the skillet and temporarily reserve on a separate plate.
- Transfer remaining marinade into the same skillet, utilizing a spatula to collect caramelized cooking remnants.
- Reduce marinade through gentle simmering, concentrating flavors and creating a glossy sauce consistency.
- Taste and calibrate seasoning, potentially incorporating additional salt, pepper, or honey to enhance depth.
- Reintroduce chicken to the skillet, gently coating with the reduced balsamic glaze.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a vibrant citrus splash from lemon juice.
- Present alongside complementary accompaniments like roasted seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice.
Notes
- Marinate chicken longer for deeper, more intense flavor that penetrates the meat thoroughly.
- Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and cutting boards when handling raw chicken.
- Reduce heat if chicken browns too quickly to prevent burning while ensuring complete internal cooking.
- Customize the recipe for dietary needs by substituting honey with agave nectar for vegan options or using low-sodium alternatives for salt-restricted diets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg