When you need a no-fuss, flavor-packed chicken recipe that comes out juicy every time, this Balsamic Chicken Breast is your new go-to. Whether you grill it or bake it, the tangy-sweet balsamic marinade works its magic, delivering tender, savory chicken that pairs beautifully with just about any side.
This is one of those simple weeknight wins that’s healthy, flexible, and full of flavor. The kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Chicken
- Easy ingredients: All pantry staples — nothing fancy here.
- Juicy and tender: The balsamic marinade locks in flavor and moisture.
- Grill or bake: Great year-round, whether you’re firing up the grill or using your oven.
- Healthy and satisfying: Packed with lean protein and light on calories.
- Meal prep friendly: Great hot or cold, and leftovers hold up well.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless. Chicken thighs work too if that’s what you have.
- Balsamic marinade:
- Olive oil
- Low-sodium soy sauce
- Balsamic vinegar
- Garlic
- Dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper
This marinade is savory, slightly tangy, and has just the right balance of acidity and herbiness to keep the chicken flavorful and moist.
How to Make Balsamic Chicken
Marinate the Chicken:
In a zip-top bag or bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer if you have the time — up to 8 hours).
To Bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Gently flatten the chicken breasts for even cooking. Place on a foil-lined baking dish and bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temp hits 165°F.
To Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until fully cooked through.
Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with extra marinade if you saved some, and serve with your favorite side.
Tips for the Best Balsamic Chicken
- Use a meat mallet to gently flatten the chicken for even cooking. Cover it with plastic wrap to avoid sticking.
- Want a one-pan dinner? Toss some veggies on the sheet pan to roast alongside the chicken.
- Always preheat your grill or oven so the chicken cooks evenly and sears properly.
- A meat thermometer is your best friend — 165°F is the magic number.
Serving Ideas
This balsamic chicken is versatile and goes with just about everything. Try it with:
- Mashed or roasted sweet potatoes
- Cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower
- A fresh green salad or quinoa tabbouleh
- Roasted garlic cauliflower
- Mediterranean chickpea or orzo salad
- Crispy baked potato wedges
Storage & Reheating
Store:
Leftover balsamic chicken will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheat:
Pop it in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or until warmed through. It’s also delicious sliced cold in salads or wraps.
Recipe FAQs
How do I know when chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer — it should read 165°F at the thickest part of the breast. No thermometer? The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
Is vinegar good for marinating chicken?
Absolutely. Balsamic vinegar not only adds flavor, but also helps tenderize the chicken thanks to its natural acidity.
How long should I marinate chicken?
A minimum of 30 minutes will do the trick for chicken breasts, but anywhere from 2 hours to overnight will boost the flavor even more.
Can I use this marinade for other proteins?
Yes! This balsamic marinade also works well with pork chops, steak, or even tofu for a meatless option.
Final Thoughts
This balsamic chicken breast recipe is proof that a handful of basic ingredients can turn into something really special. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but flavorful enough to serve to guests. Keep it in your rotation for those busy nights when you want something satisfying without any hassle.
Balsamic Chicken Breast
When you need a no-fuss, flavor-packed chicken recipe that comes out juicy every time, this Balsamic Chicken Breast is your new go-to.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp aged balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt, or to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a Ziploc bag. Add olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Seal the bag and gently press around to distribute the marinade evenly over the chicken.
- Refrigerate and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- For Baking:Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish.Gently pound the chicken breasts with the flat side of a meat mallet to about 1/2-inch thickness.
- Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish and bake for 35 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F.
- For Grilling:Preheat the grill for 5 minutes.Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Notes
- Use a preheated oven or grill for best results.
- Lining your baking dish or sheet pan with foil or parchment paper helps with easy cleanup.
- If baking, you can toss in some veggies on the same pan for a quick one-pan meal.
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 283Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 102mgSodium 663mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 0gSugar 2gProtein 38g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.