Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours or up to overnight.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear them in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken: Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Serve
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the chicken with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Perfect Balsamic Chicken
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight marination is ideal.
- Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Skillet Substitute: If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, transfer the chicken and marinade to a baking dish after searing.
Variations
- Grilled Balsamic Chicken: Instead of baking, grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Balsamic Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Vegetable Addition: Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or onions to the skillet before baking for a complete one-pan meal.
Final Thoughts
Balsamic Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar, sweet honey, and aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering marinade that transforms simple chicken breasts into a gourmet meal. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious dish!