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Easy Juicy Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breasts Recipe for Perfect Dinner

balsamic glazed chicken breasts - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for juicy, tender chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy balsamic reduction, perfect for a comforting yet elegant dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (450-680g)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5 minutes on the first side without moving them until a deep golden crust forms.
  4. Flip the chicken over gently using tongs. Pour the balsamic glaze evenly over the chicken. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for another 6-8 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chicken occasionally.
  5. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or juices run clear when cut.
  6. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy and allow the glaze to set.
  7. Serve by spooning any remaining glaze from the pan over the chicken and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper searing. Use room temperature chicken for even cooking. Adjust heat carefully to prevent burning the glaze. If glaze is too runny, increase heat briefly to reduce before resting chicken. Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy. Marinating chicken in the glaze for 30 minutes to 2 hours can deepen flavor but avoid longer to prevent ‘cooking’ the meat with acid.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic glazed chicken, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken breasts, quick dinner, balsamic vinegar chicken, weeknight dinner, simple chicken recipe