Balsamic Chicken is a popular dish that belongs to Italian cuisine. It is a flavorful and delicious chicken recipe that showcases the unique taste of balsamic vinegar. One of the peculiarities of Balsamic Chicken is the use of balsamic vinegar as a key ingredient in the marinade or sauce. The vinegar adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, which perfectly complements the savory taste of the chicken.
This dish is typically cooked by marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The chicken is then grilled, baked, or pan-fried until it is cooked through and has a nice caramelized exterior. The cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and infuse into the chicken, resulting in a mouthwatering and aromatic dish.
Balsamic Chicken offers a unique combination of flavors. The taste is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes. The balsamic vinegar adds a rich and complex flavor profile, while the garlic and herbs enhance the overall taste. The aroma of Balsamic Chicken is enticing, with the vinegar and herbs creating an inviting scent that fills the kitchen.
In terms of texture, Balsamic Chicken is tender and juicy. The marinade helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a subtle caramelization to the exterior, giving it a slightly crispy texture. The dish is often served with a drizzle of the balsamic sauce or reduction, which further enhances the texture and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Aside from its delicious taste and aroma, Balsamic Chicken also offers various benefits. Chicken is a lean source of protein, making this dish a nutritious option. The balsamic vinegar used in the recipe is known for its potential health benefits, such as aiding digestion and reducing blood sugar levels. Additionally, this dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, pasta, or salad, making it a versatile and satisfying meal option.
Cooking equipment
- A sharp knife: A must-have tool to slice the chicken breasts into thin, even pieces. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the balsamic marinade.
- A cutting board: An essential surface for safely chopping and preparing the ingredients. Choose a sturdy cutting board that won’t slip and slide while you’re slicing and dicing.
- A mixing bowl: The perfect vessel to combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. A deep bowl will allow you to whisk the marinade ingredients together until they are well blended.
- A whisk: Use this handy tool to emulsify the balsamic vinegar and olive oil, creating a smooth and well-incorporated marinade. Whisking will ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed.
- A measuring spoon set: Accurate measurements are crucial when dealing with marinades. Use a set of measuring spoons to add just the right amount of spices, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Tongs: These long-handled utensils will help you flip the chicken pieces without piercing or tearing them. Tongs provide a firm grip and prevent any accidents while maneuvering the chicken in the pan or on the grill.
- A skillet or grill pan: Choose a high-quality skillet or grill pan to cook the marinated chicken. The pan should be large enough to accommodate all the chicken pieces without overcrowding, allowing them to cook evenly.
- A spatula: Whether you’re using a skillet or grill pan, a spatula is essential for flipping the chicken and preventing it from sticking to the cooking surface. Opt for a heat-resistant spatula that can handle the high temperatures.
- A serving platter: Once the balsamic chicken is cooked to perfection, it deserves a beautiful presentation. Transfer the juicy chicken pieces to a stylish serving platter that will impress your guests.
- Garnishing tools: To add a final touch to your dish, you might want to have some garnishing tools on hand. A pair of kitchen shears for snipping fresh herbs or a microplane grater for adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can elevate the visual appeal and taste of your balsamic chicken.
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious balsamic chicken!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess liquid.
- Cook the chicken on the grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Make sure to turn the chicken only once to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the balsamic reduction. In a small saucepan, bring the remaining marinade to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
- Arrange the grilled chicken on a serving platter and drizzle the balsamic reduction over the top.
- Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and slices of mozzarella cheese for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve your balsamic chicken dish hot and enjoy the delectable combination of tangy balsamic glaze, succulent grilled chicken, and vibrant fresh ingredients.
Recipe Balsamic Chicken
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- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
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Balsamic Chicken is a delightful dish that hails from the beautiful country of Italy. Bursting with flavors and aromas, this recipe is sure to transport your taste buds to the charming streets of Tuscany.
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The preparation for this delectable dish takes just 15 minutes, allowing you to quickly gather all the necessary ingredients and get started on your culinary adventure. With the aromatic balsamic vinegar taking center stage, you’ll be captivated by the tantalizing scents wafting through your kitchen.
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Once you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. With a cooking time of approximately 25 minutes, the flavors of the balsamic chicken develop and meld together, creating a harmonious symphony of taste that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
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In just 40 minutes, from start to finish, you’ll have a mouthwatering plate of Balsamic Chicken ready to be savored. The succulent chicken, marinated in the tangy balsamic vinegar, will tantalize your palate and leave you craving for more. Whether you serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a bed of fluffy rice, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning food connoisseurs.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the rack in the center.
- Take a baking dish and line it with aluminum foil. This will make cleaning up a breeze later on.
- Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and olive oil until well combined.
- Pour the balsamic marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is generously coated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare any side dishes you desire or simply relax and enjoy a cup of tea.
- After marinating, remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the top layer of aluminum foil from the baking dish and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake the chicken for 20 minutes or until cooked through. You can check doneness by cutting into one of the thickest parts of a chicken breast to ensure there is no pink inside.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven using oven mitts or pot holders. The dish will be hot!
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in moist and flavorful chicken.
- Garnish the balsamic chicken with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for an added touch of freshness.
- Serve the chicken alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade balsamic chicken, savoring the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors!
Nutrition
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Chicken Breast:
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 3g
- Calories: 165
- Vitamin B6: 0.6mg
- Potassium: 286mg
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Balsamic Vinegar:
- Calories: 14
- Carbohydrates: 2.7g
- Sugar: 2.5g
- Calcium: 9mg
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Olive Oil:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 14g
- Vitamin E: 1.9mg
- Vitamin K: 8.1mcg
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Garlic:
- Calories: 4
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Vitamin C: 0.9mg
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Honey:
- Calories: 64
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sugar: 17g
- Iron: 0.4mg
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Black Pepper:
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1.5g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Vitamin K: 7.4mcg
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Salt:
- Calories: 0
- Sodium: 2325mg
The Balsamic Chicken dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional value of its key ingredients:
1. Chicken Breast:
– Protein: A generous serving of 26g of protein helps in muscle growth and repair.
– Fat: With just 3g of fat, it is a lean source of protein.
– Calories: A moderate 165 calories make it a healthy choice for a satisfying meal.
– Vitamin B6: Contains 0.6mg of Vitamin B6, which aids in brain development and function.
– Potassium: Provides 286mg of potassium, crucial for maintaining proper heart and muscle function.
2. Balsamic Vinegar:
– Calories: A mere 14 calories, making it a low-calorie addition to the dish.
– Carbohydrates: Contains 2.7g of carbs, providing energy for the body.
– Sugar: With 2.5g of natural sugar, it adds a touch of sweetness to the dish.
– Calcium: Provides 9mg of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.
3. Olive Oil:
– Calories: 120 calories, but it’s worth it for the flavor it adds.
– Fat: Contains 14g of healthy fats that are good for the heart.
– Vitamin E: A source of 1.9mg of vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant.
– Vitamin K: Provides 8.1mcg of vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health.
4. Garlic:
– Calories: A negligible 4 calories, allowing you to enjoy its flavor guilt-free.
– Carbohydrates: Contains 1g of carbs, providing a small boost of energy.
– Fiber: Provides 0.1g of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.
– Vitamin C: Contains 0.9mg of vitamin C, boosting the immune system.
5. Honey:
– Calories: 64 calories, adding natural sweetness to the dish.
– Carbohydrates: Contains 17g of carbs, providing a quick source of energy.
– Sugar: With 17g of sugar, it offers a natural alternative to refined sugars.
– Iron: Provides 0.4mg of iron, necessary for oxygen transport in the body.
6. Black Pepper:
– Calories: A mere 6 calories, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
– Carbohydrates: Contains 1.5g of carbs, adding a subtle spiciness to the chicken.
– Fiber: Provides 0.6g of dietary fiber, aiding in digestive health.
– Vitamin K: Contains 7.4mcg of vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health.
7. Salt:
– Calories: No calories but enhances the overall taste.
– Sodium: Contains 2325mg of sodium, so use it sparingly.
By incorporating these ingredients into the Balsamic Chicken dish, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body with a variety of essential nutrients.
Ideas for serving
– Balsamic chicken is a delightful dish that combines the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar with tender chicken. Here are some ideas on how to serve this mouthwatering creation:
1. Balsamic Chicken Skewers: Thread bite-sized pieces of balsamic chicken onto skewers, alternating with colorful bell peppers and juicy cherry tomatoes. Grill them to perfection, and serve as an appetizer or a main course. The smoky char from the grill complements the balsamic glaze beautifully.
2. Balsamic Chicken Salad: Slice the balsamic chicken into thin strips and toss it with a mix of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Drizzle a homemade balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, and sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor. This refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
3. Balsamic Chicken Sandwich: Pile slices of balsamic chicken onto a crusty baguette or ciabatta roll, along with fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella cheese. Add a dollop of tangy pesto or a smear of sun-dried tomato aioli for an Italian twist. This sandwich is a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
4. Balsamic Chicken Pasta: Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions, and toss it with sliced balsamic chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and caramelized onions. Add a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness. This hearty pasta dish will leave you craving for more.
5. Balsamic Chicken Stir-Fry: Slice the balsamic chicken into thin strips and stir-fry it with an assortment of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots. Add a splash of soy sauce and a drizzle of honey to create a perfect balance of flavors. Serve over a bed of steamed jasmine rice for a quick and wholesome meal.
6. Balsamic Chicken Bruschetta: Top toasted baguette slices with diced balsamic chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese. The combination of flavors in this bite-sized appetizer is an explosion of taste in every bite.
7. Balsamic Chicken Quesadillas: Fill flour tortillas with balsamic chicken, gooey melted cheese, sautéed onions, and sliced bell peppers. Grill or pan-fry until golden and crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with a side of tangy salsa and creamy guacamole for a delightful Tex-Mex twist.
8. Balsamic Chicken Pizza: Spread a thin layer of balsamic glaze on your favorite pizza crust, then top it with sliced balsamic chicken, caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese. Bake until the crust is crispy and the cheese is bubbly. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh arugula for a peppery kick.
With these creative serving ideas, you can elevate the deliciousness of balsamic chicken to new heights. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for yourself, these suggestions will surely impress your taste buds and leave you craving more of this delectable dish!
Storing the dish
Instructions for Storing Balsamic Chicken:
- Let the balsamic chicken cool down completely before storing it. This will help to prevent any condensation buildup inside the container.
- Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container to keep it fresh and flavorful. Make sure the container is clean and dry to avoid any contamination.
- If you have any leftover sauce, pour it into a separate airtight container or a small jar. This way, you can easily reheat it later and drizzle it over your chicken.
- Label the containers with the date to keep track of when you stored the chicken. This will help you determine its freshness later on.
- Find a suitable spot in your refrigerator to store the balsamic chicken. Make sure the temperature inside is set between 32°F (0°C) and 40°F (4°C) to ensure optimal freshness.
- Store the chicken on a shelf or in a designated section of your refrigerator, away from any raw meats or strong-smelling foods. This will prevent any cross-contamination or flavor transfer.
- If you plan to store the balsamic chicken for longer than a couple of days, consider freezing it. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil, ensuring all sides are covered.
- When freezing, remove as much air as possible from the container or packaging. This will help prevent freezer burn and maintain the chicken’s taste and texture.
- Label the frozen container with the date of freezing to keep track of its shelf life. Balsamic chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
- When ready to enjoy your balsamic chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
- Reheat the chicken thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. This will ensure it is hot and safe to eat.
Enjoy your delicious balsamic chicken, whether it’s fresh or stored for later enjoyment!
