Description
This Balsamic Baked Chicken features tender chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful mix of balsamic vinegar, honey, and herbs. It’s an easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and can be served with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the delicious combination of sweet and tangy flavors!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme.
- Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, ensuring the honey dissolves completely.
- Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly and massage the marinade into the chicken.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- If using cherry tomatoes, rinse and slice them in half.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the baking dish, spaced evenly.
- Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken and scatter cherry tomatoes around if using.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Optionally, broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes for a caramelized finish.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
- If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the warm chicken.
- Chop fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them over the top before serving.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Simmer any leftover marinade in a saucepan for 5 minutes to reduce it into a thicker sauce and drizzle over the chicken.
- Enjoy your delicious balsamic baked chicken!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave carefully to avoid drying out.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the baking dish for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes