Glazed Balsamic Chicken

Balsamic Glazed Chicken Recipe

Everyone needs good, go-to, easy chicken recipes. Especially for busy weeknights…

One that you know you always have all of the ingredients on hand, with a marinade that will take your dinner from boring to brilliant.

This honey balsamic chicken recipe is exactly that.  (And came from a little inspiration when making this Healthy Balsamic Glaze Recipe.)

It’s simple, easy to whip up, and is out-of-this-world delicious! 

Sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar combine to tantalize your taste buds atop a tender and juicy chicken breast.

But wait, what’s that herby goodness in there?

It’s my secret ingredient that takes this chicken over-the-top. There’s a touch of fresh rosemary to keep those buds guessing!

This recipe is so impressive you can serve it up for a fancy dinner party. Meanwhile, your friends will be none-the-wiser that you actually threw this together last minute. 

Ingredients

The simple ingredients you need to make this easy Balsamic Chicken recipe include:

• Chicken Breasts. Use organic boneless skinless chicken breasts if possible. Not only do they taste incredible but they are SO much better for you. If needed, you can sub in boneless skinless chicken thighs, but be sure to adjust the cooking time.
• Honey. Local wildflower honey is best, but clover honey will work well, too. Or, swap it out for pure maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Chicken Broth. Water can also be used in place of the broth. If so, you may want to increase the amount of salt to make up for the lack of sodium and flavor.
• Balsamic Vinegar. This ingredient is the main star of the show in the balsamic chicken marinade. Opt for a good quality balsamic vinegar such as Ottavia’s Silver Balsamic Vinegar, or the best balsamic vinegar you can afford for big flavor. Be sure to NOT use a balsamic vinaigrette.
• Rosemary. Fresh rosemary gives a subtle note that really takes this recipe over-the-top. Or, substitute for fresh thyme, basil, or even dried herbs.   

How to Make Balsamic Chicken

Making this balsamic chicken breast recipe with its accompanying glaze only requires a few simple steps:

Prep the Chicken

Properly preparing the meat makes cooking chicken breasts surprisingly easy.

First, you’ll want to tenderize and portion them. Pound into 1-inch thick pieces with a meat mallet and cut into 4-ounce sections. Save on the mess while doing this by covering the chicken in plastic wrap or placing it in a Ziploc bag.

A kitchen scale will give you the most accurate results. Be sure the chicken comes out to even thickness so it cooks consistently.

Make the Marinade

Whisk together marinade ingredients in a large bowl or bag.

Add the prepared chicken and marinate in the fridge for 15-30 minutes. 

Cook the Chicken in a Skillet

Place the marinated chicken in a cast-iron skillet over medium or medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. 

You’ll know it’s done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer. (Here’s more on the question, What temperature is chicken done?)

The cook time will vary based on how thick the chicken is.

How to Grill Balsamic Chicken

Cooking this chicken on the grill is very similar to the stovetop method. 

Portion, tenderize, and marinate the chicken. Then preheat a barbecue to medium heat. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side. 

Reduce the Sauce

Add the excess marinade to a saucepan. Bring it to a boil for 1 minute, and simmer for 10 minutes.

It will reduce by half and continue to thicken up as it cools to form a glaze.

Drizzle the reduction of balsamic vinegar over the chicken just before serving.

Garnish with extra fresh rosemary for a pop of flavor and color.

If you grilled the chicken, remove it first. Then, drizzle the sticky glaze over the top.

Meal Prep and Storage

• To Prep-Ahead: Mix up the marinade and balsamic glaze and store in the refrigerator until ready to use. You can also marinate the chicken up to 12 hours in advance.
• To Store: Leftover balsamic chicken will last for up to 3-4 days if sealed in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Store the balsamic glaze separately in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks.
• To Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 4-6 months. 
• To Reheat: Warm the chicken in the microwave, or in a skillet on the stove until heated through.

Dietary Modifications

The recipe you’ll find below is already gluten-free, paleo, and dairy-free as written. Here are substitutions you can make to help it fit your other dietary requirements:

• Low-carb or Keto: Replace the sweetener with a non-nutritive sweetener such as Stevia.

Is balsamic glaze and reduction the same thing?

While balsamic glaze and reduction are very similar, there is a slight difference. Both are the result of cooking down balsamic vinegar to a thicker consistency. However, a glaze also adds in a sweetener such as honey or sugar.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Pound it out. Use a meat tenderizer to reduce the chicken to 1-inch thick pieces. 
• Place some parchment. Cover the chicken when pounding to prevent the raw juices from splattering.
• Use high quality. The real taste comes from the balsamic vinegar, so don’t skimp!
• Cast-iron is key. This pan gives it a crusty sear and the best results.
• Prep the glaze. As the balsamic glaze cools it will thicken, so make it in advance for a stickier sauce and an easy dinner. 

What to Serve with Balsamic Glazed Chicken?

This balsamic glazed chicken is such a versatile main dish and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few of favorites for a weeknight dinner:

Chinese Green Beans and Broccoli Bacon Salad are a great way to get your greens.

In the summer, be sure to try Sautéed Zucchini and Zucchini Pie. They will quickly become a family favorite.

Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes or Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes are quick and easy.

Or, keep it simple with a Massaged Kale Salad.

More Chicken Breast Recipes

Chicken is one of the easiest, and healthiest, proteins for a quick and simple dinner. Try any of these recipes next.

For some Italian flavor, try Gluten-free Chicken Parmesan, Caprese Chicken, or Chicken Piccata.

This Honey Mustard Chicken and Hot Honey Chicken are so easy to whip up, too.

Also, check out How to Thaw Chicken Fast!