Succulent Balsamic Glazed Chicken: A Recipe for Weeknight Wins
Balsamic glazed chicken is a dish that effortlessly balances sweet and savory flavors, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser. The tangy balsamic glaze, reduced to a luscious, syrupy consistency, clings beautifully to juicy, perfectly cooked chicken, creating a delightful culinary experience. This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Glazed Chicken Recipe
* **Flavor Explosion:** The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors is simply irresistible.
* **Quick and Easy:** Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal.
* **Versatile:** Pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes.
* **Elegant:** Impress your guests with a sophisticated dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.
* **Healthy(ish):** Using chicken breast makes it a lean protein option, and balsamic vinegar offers some health benefits.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we begin, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful balsamic glazed chicken:
* **Chicken Breasts:** 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
* **Balsamic Vinegar:** 1/2 cup, preferably a good quality balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor
* **Soy Sauce:** 2 tablespoons, low sodium recommended to control saltiness
* **Honey:** 2 tablespoons (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon
* **Dried Italian Herbs:** 1 teaspoon (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary)
* **Red Pepper Flakes:** 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a touch of heat)
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste
* **Fresh Parsley:** Chopped, for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
* **Chicken Thighs:** Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
* **Balsamic Glaze:** If you have pre-made balsamic glaze, you can use it directly, adjusting the amount to your preference. Start with about 1/4 cup and add more as needed.
* **Sugar:** If you don’t have honey, you can use brown sugar or granulated sugar instead.
* **Garlic Powder:** In a pinch, you can substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic (use about 1/2 teaspoon).
* **Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano can be used instead of dried Italian herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs.
* **Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of lemon juice can add a bright, citrusy note to the glaze.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large Skillet:** A large skillet, preferably non-stick, is essential for cooking the chicken and reducing the balsamic glaze.
* **Small Bowl:** For mixing the balsamic glaze ingredients.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Tongs:** For flipping the chicken breasts.
* **Meat Thermometer:** To ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own delicious balsamic glazed chicken:
**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
* Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown properly.
* Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Make sure to coat both sides evenly. The red pepper flakes should also be applied at this step if you want a bit of spice.
**Step 2: Sear the Chicken**
* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
* Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
* Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
* Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm.
**Step 3: Make the Balsamic Glaze**
* In the same skillet (without wiping it clean), add the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and minced garlic.
* Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
* Let the glaze simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it has reduced and thickened into a syrupy consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon easily.
* Be careful not to overcook the glaze, as it can become too thick and bitter.
**Step 4: Glaze the Chicken**
* Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the balsamic glaze.
* Spoon the glaze over the chicken, making sure to coat each breast evenly. You can also turn the chicken in the glaze to ensure it’s fully covered.
* Let the chicken simmer in the glaze for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
**Step 5: Serve and Garnish**
* Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a serving plate.
* Drizzle any remaining balsamic glaze from the skillet over the chicken.
* Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Balsamic Glazed Chicken
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** Cooking the chicken in batches ensures that it browns properly and doesn’t steam.
* **Use a good quality balsamic vinegar:** The flavor of the balsamic vinegar is crucial to the success of this dish. Opt for a good quality vinegar for the best results.
* **Watch the glaze carefully:** Balsamic glaze can burn easily, so keep a close eye on it while it’s simmering and stir occasionally.
* **Don’t overcook the chicken:** Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the correct internal temperature.
* **Let the chicken rest:** Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions
Balsamic glazed chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes are all excellent choices.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes are a classic pairing.
* **Rice Pilaf:** A flavorful rice pilaf adds a touch of elegance to the meal.
* **Quinoa:** For a healthier option, serve the chicken with quinoa.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad or a more elaborate Caprese salad complements the richness of the chicken.
* **Pasta:** Serve over pasta with a light drizzle of olive oil and parmesan cheese.
* **Bread:** Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious balsamic glaze.
Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerate:** Leftover balsamic glazed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
* **Freeze:** While not ideal, you can freeze balsamic glazed chicken. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Recipe
Here’s the complete recipe for easy reference:
**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 20 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 ounces each)
* 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
* 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
5. Let the glaze simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it has reduced and thickened into a syrupy consistency.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the glaze over the chicken, coating each breast evenly. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a serving plate. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken.
8. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving (depending on serving size and ingredients used)
* Protein: 40-45 grams
* Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
* Fat: 10-15 grams
*Note: This is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.*
Variations and Additions
Here are some creative ways to customize your balsamic glazed chicken:
* **Add Mushrooms:** Sauté sliced mushrooms in the skillet before adding the balsamic glaze for an earthy flavor.
* **Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes:** Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet along with the balsamic glaze for a burst of sweetness and acidity.
* **Spice it Up:** Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
* **Add a touch of Citrus:** Zest the lemon and use it to add a nice citrus note.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to create unique flavor profiles.
* **Make it Creamy:** Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese to the balsamic glaze for a richer, creamier sauce.
* **Marinate the Chicken:** For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
* **Grill the Chicken:** Grill the chicken instead of searing it in a skillet for a smoky flavor. Brush with balsamic glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
Conclusion
Balsamic glazed chicken is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed any night of the week. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to savor this delightful culinary creation. Bon appétit!
Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with friends and family! This recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Happy cooking!