Description
This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, and herbs. The chicken is baked to perfection, resulting in a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Garnished with fresh basil, it pairs well with roasted vegetables or quinoa for a balanced meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 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
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Whisk until well blended and the honey dissolves completely.
- Season the Marinade: Add salt and pepper to taste to the marinade and mix thoroughly.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring even coating. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 to 4 hours for best flavor.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Chicken for Baking: Remove the chicken from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Line a baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly grease with olive oil.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange marinated chicken breasts in the baking dish evenly spaced. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Optionally baste halfway through baking with pan juices.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes to retain juices.
- Slice and Serve: Slice chicken into thick pieces, arrange on a serving platter, and drizzle with pan juices. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Side Suggestions and Storage: Serve with your choice of sides like roasted vegetables or quinoa. Allow leftovers to cool, store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat before serving.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for 2 to 4 hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Bringing chicken to room temperature before baking helps it cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Basting midway through baking keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Leftover chicken can be used in salads or sandwiches.
- Fresh basil garnish adds a pop of color and fresh aroma but is optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Balsamic baked chicken, easy baked chicken breast, healthy chicken recipe, balsamic chicken marinade, oven baked chicken, dinner recipe
