If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s effortless but doesn’t skimp on flavor, Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe is bound to become your new go-to. Juicy chicken breasts soak up a tangy-sweet balsamic marinade, then bake to golden perfection all on one pan. This easy favorite delivers a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and herby notes with minimal effort, plus it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing guests, this is a dish that never fails to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is basic, but together they create a marinade that’s rich with bold flavor and irresistible aroma. Every component serves a purpose, working in harmony to transform humble chicken into an unforgettable dinner.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless pieces are perfect for soaking up the marinade and baking evenly, resulting in tender, juicy bites.
- Balsamic vinegar: This kitchen staple delivers the recipe’s characteristic tangy depth and a lovely hint of natural sweetness.
- Olive oil: It adds richness, helps keep the chicken moist, and blends the flavors of all the other ingredients.
- Honey: A touch of honey rounds everything out with a gentle sweetness and helps the chicken caramelize slightly in the oven.
- Garlic: Minced fresh for maximum punch, garlic brings aromatic warmth and elevates every bite.
- Dried Italian seasoning: This blend infuses the dish with classic herbal notes—think basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors in the marinade.
- Black pepper: A modest bit of freshly ground black pepper provides a touch of heat and depth.
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional): Add this as a vibrant garnish—its pop of color and freshness are the perfect finish.
How to Make Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your chicken goes in. Lightly grease your favorite baking dish—an oven-safe ceramic or glass dish works well. Prepping your cookware first means everything’s ready to go and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This luscious marinade is the backbone of the Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe, marrying tang, sweetness, and herbal goodness into every drop.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Arrange the chicken breasts snugly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken, turning each breast so they’re evenly coated on all sides. Don’t be afraid to get in there and make sure every bit of chicken gets a good soak—more flavor, more deliciousness!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish in the preheated oven, uncovered. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). To lock in extra juiciness and boost flavor, pause halfway through and spoon some of the pan juices over the chicken. Let the oven do its magic—your kitchen will smell incredible.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, let it rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the chicken stays tender. Right before serving, spoon a bit of that gorgeous sauce from the pan over the top, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if you’re using it. Super simple, but utterly delicious!
How to Serve Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh parsley does wonders for both the look and taste of this dish. If you want to level it up, consider a small sprinkle of lemon zest for added brightness or a few shavings of parmesan (if dairy isn’t a concern). These little touches make every plate look restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs perfectly with so many sides. Try roasted veggies, garlic mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The flavorful sauce is made for drizzling—don’t hesitate to pour it over your side dishes too!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress, slice the chicken and fan it out on a platter before spooning over extra pan sauce. You can also serve each breast atop a bed of cooked quinoa or farro for something hearty, or stuff warm pita bread with slices of Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe, arugula, and tomato for a gourmet sandwich twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and sauce together, so the meat stays moist and continues to soak up those gorgeous flavors overnight.
Freezing
For longer storage, cool the cooked chicken completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and be sure to freeze some of the pan sauce as well for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken (with sauce) in a covered baking dish and warm gently in a 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through. If you’re in a pinch, the microwave works too—just cover the chicken and reheat in short intervals to preserve moisture. Spoon over any extra sauce before serving to restore flavor and juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and absorb the balsamic marinade beautifully. Adjust the bake time as needed—bone-in thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through.
Does this recipe work if I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a wonderful way to infuse even more flavor. Toss the chicken and marinade in a zip-top bag and chill in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours—the results are incredibly tasty.
Is Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe contains no gluten. Just double-check that your balsamic vinegar and other pantry staples are certified gluten-free if you’re serving someone with sensitivities.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?
You can! Grill the marinated chicken over medium heat, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Grilling adds a smoky char that plays really well with the balsamic-honey notes.
What’s the best way to tell when the chicken is done?
The most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer—when each breast hits 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part, it’s ready to enjoy. You’ll also notice clear juices and a nicely caramelized surface from the oven.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving big flavor without a lot of work, you have to give this Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe a try. It’s a true crowd-pleaser and just as perfect for busy nights as it is for relaxed family meals. Pull out your baking dish and treat yourself to something downright delicious tonight!
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Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with this scrumptious Oven Baked Balsamic Chicken recipe that’s bursting with flavor. Tender chicken breasts marinated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, then baked to perfection. A simple yet impressive dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and pour the balsamic mixture over them, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste with pan juices halfway through.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon additional sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
- You can marinate the chicken for up to 12 hours for enhanced flavor.
- This recipe also works well with chicken thighs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 37 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
