Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering California Love Balsamic Chicken recipe! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with a perfect balance of tangy balsamic vinegar, sweet honey, and aromatic garlic - a dish so delicious, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend culinary adventurer, this recipe promises restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a medium mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- Remove chicken from refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which helps ensure even cooking.
- Preheat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting.
- Cook chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with reserved marinade. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, which keeps the meat tender and moist.
- Slice chicken and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Marination is Key: Allow your chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can plan ahead, letting it sit for up to 4 hours will develop even deeper, more complex flavors.
- Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent dry, overcooked meat.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that perfect golden-brown sear.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The secret to perfectly cooked chicken is hitting the 165°F internal temperature - no guesswork required!
- Resting is Crucial: Always let your chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in those delicious juices and keep the meat tender and moist.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: The fresh basil isn't just a garnish - it adds a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 346kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
