Description
This Balsamic Glazed Chicken recipe features juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked in a sweet, tangy, and savory balsamic glaze. Ready in under 30 minutes, it uses simple pantry staples and natural ingredients to create a flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights and family meals. Finished with fresh herbs, this versatile recipe pairs well with a variety of sides and offers an irresistible balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Balsamic Glaze
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (natural)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (natural)
- 3 garlic cloves, freshly minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Finishing Touch
- Fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to ensure a nice sear. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper to bring out the natural flavors. Set aside while you prepare the glaze.
- Make the Balsamic Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar (natural), brown sugar (natural), minced garlic, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and a splash of olive oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts into the pan without crowding. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp. This seals in the juices.
- Glaze and Simmer: Pour the balsamic glaze over the chicken in the pan. Turn the heat down to medium-low and let everything simmer gently, spooning the glaze over the chicken as it cooks. This creates a thick, sticky coating that clings beautifully to the meat. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze has thickened.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh rosemary or thyme over the chicken before serving to add a fragrant herbal touch. Serve immediately to enjoy the glaze at its best.
Notes
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook chicken in batches if needed to maintain a perfect sear.
- Use a heavy skillet, such as cast iron, for consistent heat and a golden crust.
- Baste the chicken often with the glaze to develop a rich, caramelized coating.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with glaze
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: balsamic glazed chicken, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, balsamic chicken, weeknight meal, tender chicken