Name: Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The tangy balsamic vinegar combined with honey and herbs creates a delicious marinade that keeps the chicken juicy and tender. It’s an easy recipe that delivers impressive taste with minimal effort.

A close-up view of a grilled chicken breast sliced into thick pieces, showing a golden-brown color with dark grill marks across the top. The chicken is garnished with small green herbs sprinkled evenly on top. Alongside the chicken are bright green asparagus spears laying next to the slices, adding contrast to the dish. The food rests on a white plate, all set against a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme.
Step 2: Whisk the ingredients together until well blended, ensuring the honey dissolves completely.
Step 3: Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
Step 5: Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
Step 6: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours for best results.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 8: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
Step 9: Line a baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step 10: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, spaced evenly.
Step 11: Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
Step 12: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 13: Optionally, baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through baking.
Step 14: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
Step 15: Slice the chicken into thick pieces for serving.
Step 16: Arrange the sliced chicken on a serving platter and drizzle with pan juices.
Step 17: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Step 18: Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa.

Tips & Variations

Marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator for even deeper flavor.
For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade.
Swap honey for maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetness profile.
Use fresh herbs like thyme and oregano instead of dried for a brighter taste.

Storage

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a microwave or oven until heated through, being careful not to dry it out.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of grilled chicken breast sliced into seven pieces arranged in a slightly fanned out way on a white plate. The chicken has dark brown grill marks and a shiny glaze, topped with small green herb pieces. Underneath and beside the chicken, there are a few green beans that are bright green and smooth. The white plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but you may need to increase the baking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for several hours?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes helps impart flavor, but allowing the chicken to marinate for 2 to 4 hours or overnight results in a more tender and flavorful dish.