Are you craving a flavorful, healthy dinner that won't keep you chained to the stove all evening? Look no further! This easy balsamic chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. It's a simple yet elegant dish, ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick and healthy meal option. This recipe is packed with flavor, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
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Make the Balsamic Glaze: Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce slightly thickens (about 2-3 minutes). Stir in the Dijon mustard.
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Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it evenly with the balsamic glaze. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve immediately over rice, pasta, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. This easy balsamic chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Balsamic Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of browning. Cook the chicken in batches if needed.
- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar: The flavor of the balsamic vinegar will significantly impact the taste of the dish. A good quality balsamic will elevate the entire meal.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add more or less of any seasoning to suit your personal preferences. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for a longer period. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) to thicken it further.
Variations:
- Lemon Balsamic Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the balsamic glaze for a bright and zesty twist.
- Garlic Balsamic Chicken: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet with the olive oil for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Mushroom Balsamic Chicken: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the chicken for added flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 4-serving recipe and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy balsamic chicken recipe is a delicious and healthy option for a quick weeknight meal. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, providing a flavorful and satisfying dish without the fuss. Enjoy!