Name: Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar; 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1/4 cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth or Stock; 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons Honey; 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary (chopped); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning; 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs; 2 tablespoons Parsley (freshly chopped)

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, this Balsamic Chicken Recipe is the perfect choice. With its rich, tangy flavor and tender chicken thighs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The marinade combines balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and aromatic herbs, creating a succulent dish that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be paired with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Balsamic Chicken Recipe is not only simple and straightforward, but it also delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Here’s what you can expect:

– **Quick Preparation**: With minimal prep time, you can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes.
– **Versatile**: Serve it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
– **Flavorful Marinade**: The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, and herbs creates a mouthwatering glaze.
– **Healthy and Wholesome**: Chicken thighs are juicy and packed with flavor, making them a great option for a nutritious dinner.

Ingredient Notes

Balsamic Vinegar: This is the star of the show! It adds a tangy sweetness that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A high-quality olive oil is crucial for a rich, smooth marinade.
Low Sodium Chicken Broth or Stock: This adds depth to the sauce without overwhelming saltiness.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the dish a robust aroma and flavor.
Honey: Balances the acidity of the vinegar with a touch of sweetness.
Fresh Rosemary: Use fresh for a vibrant flavor, but dried works in a pinch!
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, these are perfect for absorbing the marinade.
Parsley: Freshly chopped, it adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

Recommended Tools

Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
Whisk: Essential for blending the marinade smoothly.
Skillet or Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for even cooking and browning.
Tongs: For flipping the chicken thighs without losing any juices.
Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.

Cook Balsamic Chicken Recipe Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, low sodium chicken broth, minced garlic, honey, fresh rosemary, and Italian seasoning. Make sure all ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the remaining marinade for extra flavor.

Step 4: Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is essential for keeping the chicken juicy. Slice the chicken, if desired, and serve it garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

Replace Honey: Use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit to keep it keto-friendly.
Serve with Zucchini Noodles: Instead of pasta, spiralize zucchini for a delicious low-carb side.
Pair with Cauliflower Rice: This is a great alternative to traditional rice and complements the chicken perfectly.

Chef’s Notes

Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
If you don’t have rosemary, thyme or oregano can be great substitutes.
For a deeper flavor, consider grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Balsamic Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken the night before, allowing the flavors to develop even more. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be aware that they may dry out more quickly. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring they reach the safe internal temperature.

What if I can’t find balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar mixed with a little sugar or honey to mimic the sweetness.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and freeze it in a resealable bag. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this Balsamic Chicken Recipe is fantastic for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for a quick meal later in the week.

Final Thoughts

This Balsamic Chicken Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The rich flavors of the balsamic vinegar combined with the sweetness of honey and the aromatic herbs create a dish that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this recipe is bound to impress. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor, making it a must-try for any home cook. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious meal that will bring everyone to the table.