Are you craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Balsamic Dressing Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Balsamic Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple marinade is the key to the incredible flavor of this dish!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the balsamic marinade over the chicken, ensuring each breast is coated evenly. For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, a 15-minute marinade will still deliver great flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. You can also pan-fry or grill the chicken for a different cooking experience.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this healthy and delicious meal! It pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or quinoa for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Balsamic Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If pan-frying or grilling, ensure the chicken isn't overcrowded to allow even cooking and browning.
- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar: The flavor of the balsamic vinegar will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs, spices, and salt to your preference.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Variations:
- Add some sweetness: A touch of honey or maple syrup to the marinade adds a delightful sweetness that complements the balsamic vinegar.
- Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Lemon zest: Add some lemon zest to the marinade for a bright and citrusy flavor.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 2-5g
This easy Balsamic Dressing Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend meal. Enjoy!