Imagine a dish so incredibly delicious that it transforms an ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece. This Honey Glazed Balsamic Chicken is not just a recipe – it's a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of sweet honey, tangy balsamic vinegar, and perfectly seared chicken. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress your family or a food enthusiast seeking a restaurant-quality meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and leave everyone craving more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the chicken breasts are thawed if they were frozen. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving a good sear during cooking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and minced garlic until well combined. This mixture will serve as both a marinade and a glaze for the chicken.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the honey-balsamic mixture over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the grill or skillet is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing a nice sear to form.
- Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes on the other side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
- While the chicken is resting, you can optionally drizzle a little extra honey and balsamic vinegar over the top for added flavor.
- Slice the chicken breasts and arrange them on a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the honey glazed balsamic chicken warm with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Moisture Matters: Always pat your chicken breasts dry before cooking. This simple step ensures a beautiful golden-brown sear and prevents steaming.
- Marination Magic: While 15 minutes of marinating works, letting the chicken sit in the honey-balsamic mixture for up to 2 hours will intensify the flavors.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F (75°C). This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Resting is Crucial: Never skip the 5-minute resting period after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.
- Garnish Game: Fresh parsley isn't just for looks – it adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the rich honey-balsamic glaze.
- Versatility Tip: This recipe works great on both grill and stovetop, so don't worry if you don't have outdoor cooking equipment.
- Leftover Love: Store any remaining chicken in an airtight container and enjoy within 3-4 days for a quick and delicious meal prep option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 75mg
