Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
A flavorful and juicy balsamic baked chicken breast recipe featuring a tangy and sweet marinade made with balsamic vinegar, honey, and herbs. Perfect for a healthy and easy weeknight dinner.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a perfect bake for the chicken breasts.
- Bake the chicken: Transfer the marinated chicken breasts to a baking dish, pouring any leftover marinade over the top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, a salad, or your favorite side dish.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can substitute dried oregano and thyme if preferred.
- For a lower-sugar version, reduce or omit the honey.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: balsamic chicken, baked chicken breast, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken breast, balsamic vinegar chicken