Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary with this mouthwatering Balsamic Chicken with Asparagus recipe! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts glazed with a rich, tangy balsamic marinade, perfectly roasted alongside crisp, vibrant asparagus spears. This restaurant-quality dish is not just a meal—it's a culinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. The best part? You'll have this gourmet masterpiece on the table in just 30 minutes, making it the ultimate solution for busy home cooks who refuse to compromise on taste!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts
- Asparagus, trimmed
- Balsamic vinegar
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure even coverage for balanced flavor.
- In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil to create a marinade. The mixture should be well combined and fragrant.
- Arrange the trimmed asparagus spears on one side of the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the same baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Pour the balsamic marinade evenly over the chicken and asparagus, making sure all surfaces are lightly coated.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps keep the meat moist.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and asparagus just before serving for added flavor and richness.
- Slice the chicken and arrange on plates with asparagus. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the dish for extra moisture and flavor.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a beautiful golden-brown sear and prevent steaming.
- Use fresh, high-quality balsamic vinegar for the most intense flavor profile.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet—give the chicken and asparagus space to roast evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking if you have time.
- Choose thin asparagus spears for a more delicate texture and quicker cooking.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a huge difference compared to pre-grated varieties.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
