Transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal with this delicious balsamic chicken recipe. This Italian-inspired dish combines the rich, complex flavors of balsamic vinegar with tender, juicy chicken for a restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home. Whether you're cooking for a casual family dinner or hosting guests, this recipe delivers impressive results in just 30 minutes.
Why You'll Love This Balsamic Chicken Recipe
This recipe has become a fan favorite for good reason. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze creates a beautiful caramelized exterior on the chicken while keeping the inside perfectly moist. It's an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, pairing wonderfully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
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Balsamic Chicken Recipe Ingredients
the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
the Balsamic Glaze:
- ½ cup high-quality balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How To Make Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Preparing the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure better browning
- Season both sides generously with salt and pepper
- If chicken breasts are very thick, pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch) using a meat mallet
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts
- Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F)
- Remove chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate, tented with foil
Making the Balsamic Glaze
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
- Pour in balsamic vinegar, honey, and Italian herbs
- Add chicken broth and stir to combine
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce reduces and thickens
- Stir in butter until melted and sauce is glossy
Finishing the Dish
- Return chicken to the pan and spoon the glaze over each piece
- Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until chicken is heated through
- Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired
Equipment For Balsamic Chicken Recipe
- Large skillet or frying pan (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Tongs for flipping chicken
- Meat thermometer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover balsamic chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Balsamic Chicken Recipe Variations
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace butter with additional olive oil
- Herb Variations: Try fresh basil or thyme instead of rosemary
- Vegetable Addition: Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach to the sauce
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes for some heat
- Low-Sugar Option: Skip the honey and let the natural sweetness of the reduced balsamic shine
Serving Suggestions
This versatile balsamic chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted Mediterranean vegetables
- Steamed green beans or asparagus
- Creamy polenta
- Angel hair pasta
- Fresh arugula salad
Top Tip
Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor
Don't skip pounding the chicken - even thickness ensures even cooking
Let the sauce reduce until it coats the back of a spoon for the perfect consistency
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in some balsamic vinegar for 2-4 hours before cooking
FAQ
Is balsamic vinegar good on chicken?
Yes, balsamic vinegar is excellent on chicken. Its sweet, tangy flavor enhances the meat, adding depth and richness. When used in a glaze or marinade, it creates a delicious caramelized coating that pairs perfectly with herbs, garlic, and olive oil—especially in a simple balsamic chicken recipe.
What does balsamic vinegar do to meat?
Balsamic vinegar tenderizes meat while adding bold, slightly sweet acidity. It breaks down proteins, allowing flavor to penetrate deeper. When cooked, it reduces into a rich glaze that enhances both texture and taste. It's especially effective in marinades and glazes for chicken, beef, or pork.
How long can you marinate chicken in balsamic vinegar?
Chicken can be marinated in balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes to 8 hours. For best results, aim for 2–4 hours to allow flavor absorption without over-tenderizing. Marinating too long can break down the texture. Always refrigerate while marinating and discard any used marinade before cooking.
Can balsamic vinegar be used as a marinade?
Absolutely! Balsamic vinegar makes a flavorful base for marinades. Combined with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and a touch of sweetness like honey or brown sugar, it enhances meat with a deep, tangy flavor. It’s perfect for chicken, pork, or vegetables in recipes like balsamic chicken.
Transform your dinner tonight with this restaurant-worthy Balsamic Chicken Recipe. Ready in just 30 minutes, it delivers rich, caramelized flavor with minimal effort—a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory that’s sure to impress.
Tried it? Share your experience in the comments below—we’d love to hear how it turned out or any delicious twists you added. Happy cooking!
Craving more flavorful chicken dishes? Try our protein-packed Chicken and Shrimp Recipe or indulge in the creamy, Mediterranean-inspired Chicken Artichoke Recipe—both are easy, delicious options for your next meal!
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Easy Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Tongs for flipping chicken
- Meat thermometer
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary/parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prep Chicken:
- Pat chicken dry
- Season with salt and pepper
- Pound to even thickness (½ inch)
Cook Chicken:
- Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high
- Cook chicken 5-6 minutes per side
- Remove and set aside
Make Sauce:
- Add garlic to pan, cook 30 seconds
- Pour in vinegar, honey, herbs, broth
- Simmer 5-7 minutes until thickened
- Stir in butter
Finish:
- Return chicken to pan
- Coat with sauce
- Simmer 2-3 minutes
- Garnish and serve
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