Imagine a dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, creating a flavor profile that is both elegant and approachable. This Honey Balsamic Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The dish is infused with the subtle aroma of fresh rosemary, adding an herbaceous note that elevates the overall taste experience. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich, velvety glaze and tender, juicy chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken breasts
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar (good quality)
- ¼ cup chicken broth (regular sodium)
- 2 Tbsp. honey
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
- ½ tsp. salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp. black pepper
- 1 tsp. rosemary (fresh, finely chopped)
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large Ziploc bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and massage the marinade into the meat to ensure it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 10 hours.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the olive oil to the preheated skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Finish with Glaze: While the chicken is cooking, reduce the marinade in a small saucepan over medium heat until it thickens into a syrupy glaze. Brush the glaze over the chicken breasts during the last minute of cooking.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve hot.
Top Tips
- Use High-Quality Balsamic Vinegar: The quality of the balsamic vinegar can significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Choose a good-quality balsamic vinegar for the best results.
- Don’t Overcook: Chicken breasts can quickly become dry if overcooked. Ensure you check the internal temperature regularly to avoid overcooking.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before serving helps the juices distribute evenly throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
- Adjust Herb Amounts: If you prefer a stronger herb flavor, you can increase the amount of rosemary to your liking.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. This makes the recipe even more convenient for busy weeknights.
Variations
- Grilled Version: Instead of cooking in a skillet, you can grill the chicken breasts over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Baked Version: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Air Fryer Version: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook the marinated chicken breasts in batches if necessary, for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herby Twist: Replace the rosemary with thyme or oregano for a different herbaceous flavor profile.
- Glaze Variations: Experiment with different glaze ingredients like apple cider vinegar or honey mustard for unique flavor combinations.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving (serves 4) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 358 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 35g |
Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a healthier option for dinner. The honey and balsamic vinegar provide natural sweetness and tanginess without adding refined sugars. The chicken breast is a lean protein source, contributing to the high protein content of the dish. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients and cooking methods to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
