When it comes to elevating a dish, few ingredients can match the tangy, rich flavor of balsamic vinegar. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, balsamic vinegar can add depth and complexity to even the simplest of dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 savory balsamic chicken recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic combinations like garlic and herbs to more unexpected pairings like peaches and goat cheese, these mouthwatering recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of balsamic glaze, pungency of garlic, and freshness of herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, garlic, and herbs.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish. Brush both sides with the glaze mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Balsamic Chicken Skewers
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, garlic, balsamic glaze, and thyme.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey-balsamic mixture evenly onto the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Balsamic Chicken and Mushroom Pasta
A rich and savory pasta dish featuring chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, and a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add mixed mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss with mushroom mixture.
8. Toss cooked pasta with chicken and mushroom mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes.
Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken and Vegetables
This recipe yields tender chicken and a flavorful medley of vegetables in a rich balsamic sauce, all with minimal effort. Perfect for a stress-free weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In the slow cooker, layer the chicken, onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchinis.
3. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad
A flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad, this recipe combines juicy chicken, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a show-stopping side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken breast with salt and pepper. Cook in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Grill or cook chicken on a skillet with olive oil until slightly charred.
4. Arrange sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and grilled chicken on a platter or individual plates.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Balsamic Chicken with Rosemary
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and aromatic grilled chicken recipe, infused with the sweet and tangy notes of balsamic glaze and the herbaceous charm of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary.
4. Brush the balsamic glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Balsamic Chicken Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic stir-fry, this recipe combines juicy chicken breast with tender bell peppers and a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to skillet. Add bell peppers and garlic; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Pour glaze over the chicken and stir-fry mixture.
5. Return chicken to skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Balsamic Chicken Thighs with Parmesan
Elevate your dinner game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of balsamic glaze, the crunch of breadcrumbs, and the savory taste of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
4. Dip each chicken thigh in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken thighs.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Balsamic Chicken and Avocado Wrap
Satisfy your cravings with this flavorful wrap featuring tender balsamic chicken, creamy avocado, and crisp veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled feta cheese or chopped cilantro for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
3. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the balsamic glaze evenly over the chicken.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.
6. Assemble the wrap by spreading mixed greens on the tortilla, followed by sliced chicken, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken and Potatoes
Savor the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar, chicken, and potatoes all in one pan! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add the potatoes, garlic, balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper to the same pan. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the potato mixture.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
Balsamic Chicken Bruschetta
Experience the flavors of Italy with this simple yet delicious bruschetta recipe, featuring tender chicken and tangy balsamic glaze on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 slices of baguette
– Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breast in the bowl and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and cook according to your preferred method (grilling or baking).
5. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices until lightly browned.
6. Top toasted bread with sliced chicken, drizzle with balsamic glaze (made by reducing balsamic vinegar on low heat), and sprinkle with parsley.
7. If using mozzarella cheese, place a slice on top of the bruschetta.
Cooking Time:
– Chicken: 20-25 minutes
– Bread toasting: 5 minutes
Balsamic Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on traditional stuffed shells. Tender chicken, flavorful spinach, and rich balsamic glaze come together in a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory combination of pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich balsamic glaze, served alongside crispy roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Pan-sear in olive oil until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
4. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and brush with the balsamic glaze.
5. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Serve chicken breasts with roasted Brussels sprouts and spoon some of that glorious balsamic glaze over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Balsamic Chicken and Peach Salad
Savor the combination of juicy chicken, succulent peaches, and tangy balsamic glaze in this refreshing summer salad. This dish is perfect for a light and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Grill or bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced peaches, and cooked chicken.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Balsamic Chicken Flatbread Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful flatbread pizza featuring juicy chicken and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package flatbread pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until caramelized.
3. Roll out flatbread crust to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet.
4. Spread cooked chicken, caramelized onions, and mozzarella cheese evenly over the crust.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Balsamic Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and nutty quinoa, all tied together with a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together quinoa and water/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
4. Toss bell pepper and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and minced garlic.
6. Assemble bowls by placing quinoa on the bottom, topped with sliced chicken, roasted vegetables, and drizzled with balsamic glaze. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Chicken with Caramelized Onions
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this easy-to-make Balsamic Chicken dish, paired with sweet and savory caramelized onions. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. While the chicken is cooking, caramelize the onions in a separate pan with olive oil and garlic over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey. Brush the mixture evenly onto the cooked chicken breasts.
5. Serve chicken with caramelized onions and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus Foil Packets
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of balsamic glaze combined with tender chicken and crisp asparagus in these easy-to-make foil packets.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut four pieces of aluminum foil, about 12 inches square.
3. Place a chicken breast in the center of each foil piece.
4. Top with asparagus, drizzling with olive oil and sprinkling with garlic powder.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the asparagus.
6. Fold foil over filling to form a packet, sealing edges tightly.
7. Place packets on a baking sheet and cook for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Chicken and Goat Cheese Panini
Elevate your panini game with this flavorful combination of juicy chicken, creamy goat cheese, and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices baguette
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh arugula leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices.
4. Assemble the panini by spreading goat cheese on each toasted slice, then topping with sliced grilled chicken.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the chicken and sprinkle with arugula leaves.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a flavorful and visually appealing main course that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The tangy balsamic glaze, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil create a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Place chicken in a shallow baking dish and brush with the balsamic glaze.
5. Top each breast with sun-dried tomatoes and sprinkle with basil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these 20 savory balsamic recipes! From classic dishes like Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Garlic and Herbs, to international-inspired options like Honey Balsamic Chicken Skewers and Balsamic Chicken Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers, there’s something for every taste. Try pairing chicken with creamy sauces in Balsamic Chicken Caprese Salad or adding some crunch with crispy breading in Crispy Balsamic Chicken Thighs with Parmesan. Whatever your style, these recipes are sure to bring a tangy twist to your mealtime routine.
