Name: Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mix of oregano, thyme, basil); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or rosemary, for garnish (optional)

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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring juicy, oven-baked chicken infused with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. It’s made with minimal ingredients, takes just minutes to prep, and bakes to perfection with a glossy, caramelized finish. I love serving it with roasted veggies, salad, or over a bed of rice for a clean and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and reliable this chicken recipe is—it turns out tender, flavorful, and never dry. The balsamic glaze adds depth and a beautiful finish without needing a long list of ingredients. It’s perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or when I want something that feels fancy but is actually super easy. It’s naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and pairs well with almost any side.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Balsamic vinegar
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Honey or maple syrup
Dijon mustard
Dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, thyme, basil)
Salt and black pepper
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or rosemary

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a small bowl, I whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, herbs, salt, and pepper.
I place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and pour the balsamic mixture over the top, making sure each piece is well coated.
I bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
For a richer glaze, I spoon some of the pan juices over the chicken during the last 5 minutes.
I let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25–30 minutes to bake, so it’s ready in around 40 minutes total.

Variations

I use chicken thighs for a juicier, more budget-friendly option.
Sometimes I add sliced cherry tomatoes and red onions to bake alongside the chicken.
For extra flavor, I marinate the chicken in the balsamic mixture for 2–4 hours before baking.
I’ve also added a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a deeper or spicier twist.
It pairs great with a drizzle of pesto or a sprinkle of parmesan just before serving.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or warm it gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through. It also tastes great sliced cold over salads or in wraps.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! I mix the balsamic glaze and marinate the chicken ahead, then bake it fresh when I’m ready to eat. It’s great for meal prep too.

Is balsamic vinegar strong?

Balsamic has a bold flavor, but when baked with honey and garlic, it turns slightly sweet and mellow. The glaze becomes rich and balanced, not overpowering.

Can I use frozen chicken?

I recommend thawing chicken completely before baking for even cooking and best texture.

What should I serve with this?

I usually pair it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. It’s also great sliced over pasta or grain bowls.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I use a larger baking dish or sheet pan and avoid overcrowding the chicken so it bakes evenly and caramelizes properly.

Conclusion

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is one of my favorite go-to dinners—simple, delicious, and loaded with bold, tangy-sweet flavor. It’s a low-effort meal that feels elevated and makes a great base for so many sides. Whether I’m meal prepping or cooking for family, this dish never disappoints.

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast is an easy and flavorful oven-baked dish featuring juicy chicken glazed in a sweet and tangy balsamic mixture. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep or elegant weeknight dinners.

Author: Mayaa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mix of oregano, thyme, basil)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or rosemary, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, herbs, salt, and pepper.
Place chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the balsamic mixture over the top, coating each piece well.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
During the last 5 minutes of baking, spoon some pan juices over the chicken for a richer glaze.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary if desired.