Go Back
Delicious Balsamic Chicken Dinner featuring glazed chicken breasts and vibrant vegetables.

Best Balsamic Chicken Dinner Ever

This balsamic chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home. The key is a balance of acid, sweetness, and umami, achieved through a balsamic vinegar reduction, searing the chicken, and baking to perfection for a juicy, flavorful dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6 ounces each
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup high-quality balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil optional
  • Cherry tomatoes optional

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • whisk
  • Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
  • Oven-safe skillet (large)
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven
  • tongs
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. If using, whisk in Dijon mustard.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Sear the Chicken (Optional, but Recommended): Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade). Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step adds significant flavor and texture.
  5. Bake the Chicken: Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken in the skillet. If adding cherry tomatoes, arrange them around the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables or rice.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality balsamic vinegar. Searing the chicken before baking is crucial for flavor and juiciness. Marinating for longer than 4 hours can result in a mushy texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can substitute maple syrup for honey if desired.