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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Balsamic baked chicken breast on white plate with fresh basil garnish and glossy glaze

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Tender balsamic baked chicken breast with a sweet-tangy glaze made from simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine ½ cup balsamic vinegar, ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons honey, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Whisk together until honey dissolves completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Remove chicken from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Line a baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly grease with olive oil. Place marinated chicken in prepared dish, spaced evenly. Pour remaining marinade over chicken.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For extra glaze, baste with pan juices after 12-15 minutes. Watch for golden brown edges with caramelized spots.
  6. Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice into thick pieces, arrange on serving platter, and drizzle with pan juices. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

  • Marinate for 2-4 hours or overnight for deepest flavor penetration. Minimum 30 minutes works in a pinch.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness at 165°F internal temperature. Don’t skip the resting period to keep chicken juicy.
  • High-quality balsamic vinegar makes a noticeable difference in final flavor. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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