Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast – A Simple and Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion

This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast recipe is a perfect blend of tangy balsamic vinegar, honey, and fragrant herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and aromatic seasonings, which infuses it with a delicious depth of flavor. The baking process ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy while developing a beautifully caramelized exterior. It's an effortless yet impressive dish ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a special gathering.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  
  

• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  
  

• ¼ cup olive oil
  
  

• 2 tablespoons honey
  
  

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  
  

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
  
  

Directions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Whisk until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is well blended.
   
   

2. Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
   
   

3. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's fully coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
   
   

4. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for best results) to allow the flavors to marinate.
   
   

5. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   
   

6. Take the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
   
   

7. Line a baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil.
   
   

8. Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the baking dish, spaced evenly. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
   
   

9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). For added flavor, you can baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through the baking time.
   
   

10. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute the juices.
    
    

11. Slice the chicken into thick pieces for serving.
    
    

12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
    
    

13. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
    
    

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: 276 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 6g
  
  

• Protein: 38g
  
  

• Fat: 12g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 2g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 80mg
  
  

• Sodium: 272mg
  
  

• Potassium: 504mg
  
  

• Fiber: 1g
  
  

• Sugar: 5g
  
  

• Vitamin A: 90 IU
  
  

• Vitamin C: 1.3mg
  
  

• Calcium: 19mg
  
  

• Iron: 1.1mg