Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe features tender and juicy chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, and herbs. Baked to perfection, it’s a delicious and healthy main dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
- Author: Bella
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
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)
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot environment for even cooking and delicious caramelization of the balsamic glaze.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring all pieces are fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours, in the refrigerator for maximum flavor absorption.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish in a single layer. Pour some of the marinade over the top and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.
- Serve: Serve your balsamic baked chicken breasts with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour but no longer than 4 hours to prevent the acid in the vinegar from breaking down the meat texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano can be used in place of dried ones if preferred; adjust quantities accordingly.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain moisture.
- This recipe is adaptable for grilled chicken as well; cook over medium heat until internal temp is reached.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: balsamic chicken, baked chicken breast, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, balsamic vinegar chicken, low fat dinner