Balsamic Glazed Chicken

Name: Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Cooking | Raw & Green

I absolutely love preparing balsamic glazed chicken for dinner. The rich, tangy flavor of the balsamic vinegar combined with the sweetness of honey creates a perfect marinade that brings out the natural juiciness of the chicken. It’s a quick dish that looks impressive yet requires minimal effort. I often serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside roasted vegetables to round out a delicious meal that my family can't get enough of. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I know it will be in yours too!

Created by

Wendys

Last updated on 2026-02-24T18:26:18.853Z

When I first tried balsamic glazed chicken, I was instantly drawn to the perfect balance of flavors. The sweet and tangy glaze caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the tenderness of the chicken. It's my go-to recipe for busy weeknights or even special occasions when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

One tip I've learned is to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if time allows. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also helps it stay juicy when cooked. Always make sure to reduce the leftover marinade to create a delicious sauce!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich balsamic flavor with a perfect hint of sweetness
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Healthier option that satisfies your taste buds

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade is crucial in achieving the rich flavor profile of balsamic glazed chicken. Balsamic vinegar not only adds acidity but also enhances the natural sweetness of the honey, creating a balanced flavor that penetrates the chicken. I recommend using a high-quality balsamic vinegar to truly elevate this dish. The acidity will help tenderize the meat while infusing it with robust flavor during the marination process, making every bite deliciously satisfying.

When marinating, it's important to allow enough time for the flavors to develop—30 minutes is the minimum, but if you have the time, letting the chicken sit in the marinade for a few hours or even overnight will yield even better results. This allows the vinegar and honey to work their magic, ensuring tender, juicy chicken that bursts with flavor.

Tips for Cooking the Chicken

For the best results, use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding the chicken breasts while cooking. This helps them cook evenly and develop a lovely golden-brown sear. Preheat the skillet on medium-high heat, then add a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook each breast for about 6-7 minutes per side; you'll know they're done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and they have a beautiful golden color.

Letting the chicken rest post-cooking is crucial. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and preventing them from running out when sliced. A rest time of about 5 minutes will suffice, so you can prepare the glaze in the meantime, ensuring your meal stays organized and seamless.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect balsamic glazed chicken.

Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they are well coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes.

Make the Glaze

While the chicken rests, pour the remaining marinade into the same skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until thickened. This will create a delicious glaze to drizzle over the chicken.

Serve

Slice the chicken and serve drizzled with the balsamic glaze. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Serve this delightful dish hot for a truly satisfying meal.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade. Additionally, if you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonderfully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re looking to meal prep, balsamic glazed chicken holds up well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container for optimal freshness. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out, adding a splash of water or broth to help maintain moisture.

For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet for a couple of hours, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as previously mentioned.

Serving Suggestions

This balsamic glazed chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides. A bed of fluffy rice absorbs the savory glaze beautifully, while steamed or roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate. For a lighter option, consider serving it over a fresh bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of olive oil and additional balsamic vinegar.

If you want to elevate the dish further, try adding toppings like crumbled feta or goat cheese and toasted nuts for a delightful crunch. Fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, can also brighten the flavors beautifully when sprinkled just before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, while balsamic gives a unique flavor, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar, but the taste will vary.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more.

→ Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Grilling the chicken will add a nice smoky flavor. Just ensure to closely monitor the cooking time.

→ What sides pair well with balsamic glazed chicken?

This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a fresh garden salad.