Balsamic Vinegar Chicken: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further than this balsamic vinegar chicken recipe! This dish is packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend meal.
What Makes This Balsamic Chicken Recipe Special?
This isn't your average chicken recipe. We're elevating a simple protein into a culinary masterpiece with the rich, tangy depth of balsamic vinegar. The balsamic glaze created in this recipe adds a beautiful shine and incredible flavor to the chicken. Plus, it's incredibly versatile – you can serve it with a variety of sides to suit your taste.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: The star of the show! Look for a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best taste.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that pairs beautifully with chicken and balsamic.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste preference.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always best.
Easy-to-Follow Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's coated evenly. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Create the Balsamic Glaze (optional): Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Pour any remaining marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened into a glaze.
- Serve: Pour the balsamic glaze over the cooked chicken breasts and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
This balsamic chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are delicious sides.
- Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of your favorite pasta.
- Rice: A simple side of rice complements the rich flavor of the chicken.
- Salad: A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich balsamic chicken.
Tips and Variations:
- Add some sweetness: A teaspoon of honey or brown sugar added to the marinade can balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Grill it: This recipe also works great on the grill!
This balsamic vinegar chicken recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Its simplicity and incredible flavor make it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy!
