Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

Introduction

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze is a delicious and sophisticated dish that combines tender, juicy grilled chicken with a rich, tangy balsamic reduction. This recipe offers the perfect balance of smoky flavors from the grilled chicken and the sweet and tangy notes from the balsamic glaze. It’s a quick and easy yet elegant dish that works for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even special occasions.

The balsamic glaze adds a complex depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or on its own, Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze is sure to impress. This guide will walk you through the steps to make this dish, provide helpful tips for success, and offer creative variations to customize the recipe to your liking.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The smoky grilled chicken combined with the tangy sweetness of the balsamic glaze creates a flavor combination that is both refreshing and satisfying.
• Healthy and Light: Grilled chicken is a lean source of protein, making this dish a great choice for those looking for a lighter meal without compromising on flavor.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few ingredients—chicken, balsamic vinegar, honey, and seasonings—you can create a dish that’s both elegant and full of flavor.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for a busy weeknight meal or a last-minute dinner party dish.
• Versatile: You can easily pair this grilled chicken with a variety of sides, from vegetables and salads to rice or potatoes, making it a flexible option for any meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the size of the chicken breasts and the amount of balsamic glaze used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 6-8g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Protein: 40-45g
• Fiber: 0-1g
• Sugar: 9-10g

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Balsamic Glaze:

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by prepping the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the chicken grill more evenly and prevents it from steaming. Next, season the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a brush to evenly coat the chicken with the seasoning mixture. This will infuse the chicken with flavor while it grills.

For extra tenderness, you can pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out in certain areas.

2. Make the Balsamic Glaze

While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to make the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard (if using). Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Let the balsamic vinegar mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by about half and thickens to a syrupy consistency. Keep an eye on the glaze and make sure it doesn’t reduce too much, as it will become overly thick and sticky. Once the glaze has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set the glaze aside to cool slightly before serving.

3. Preheat the Grill

While the glaze is simmering, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). If you’re using a gas grill, turn on all burners and allow the grill to heat up. For a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing red with a light layer of ash before you begin grilling. You want the grill to be hot so that the chicken sears quickly and develops those desirable grill marks.

Brush the grill grates with a little oil or use a non-stick spray to prevent the chicken from sticking during grilling.

4. Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 7-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. It’s important not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the chicken breast to ensure it’s fully cooked.

While grilling, you can brush the chicken with some of the balsamic glaze during the last few minutes of cooking to infuse the chicken with extra flavor. Be sure to reserve some glaze for drizzling on top of the chicken when serving.

5. Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Resting the chicken helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that the meat stays tender and juicy. During this time, you can also give the balsamic glaze a final drizzle over the chicken for added flavor.

6. Serve the Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze

After the chicken has rested, slice it against the grain and drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or mashed potatoes. The chicken will be tender, flavorful, and beautifully complemented by the balsamic glaze.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze

• Pound the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures that the chicken cooks more evenly on the grill.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: While this recipe doesn’t require marinating, you can marinate the chicken in the olive oil and seasonings for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator to infuse even more flavor into the meat.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For the best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked without becoming dry.
• Control the Grill Heat: If you’re grilling on a gas grill, make sure to set the heat to medium-high. If you’re using charcoal, make sure the coals are hot but not too fiery. Medium-high heat gives the chicken a nice sear while cooking it through.
• Don’t Overcook: Grilled chicken can dry out quickly if overcooked, so be sure to monitor the cooking time carefully and use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Variations of Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze

• Herb-Infused Balsamic Glaze: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the balsamic glaze as it simmers for a more aromatic flavor. These herbs infuse the glaze with additional layers of taste that pair beautifully with the grilled chicken.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve the chicken with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The smoky, grilled vegetables complement the chicken and balsamic glaze perfectly.
• Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Fruit: For a sweet twist, pair the grilled chicken with fresh fruit like strawberries, peaches, or figs. The natural sweetness of the fruit balances the tangy balsamic glaze, making for a refreshing combination.
• Spicy Balsamic Glaze: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced chili to the balsamic glaze as it reduces. This adds a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the balsamic vinegar and honey.
• Cheese-Topped Grilled Chicken: Add a slice of fresh mozzarella or goat cheese to the chicken just before it finishes grilling. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a creamy, rich element to the dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the grilled chicken (without the glaze) in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently in the oven or microwave.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze

• Roasted Vegetables: Pair the grilled chicken with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. The earthiness of the roasted vegetables complements the sweetness of the balsamic glaze.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing side dish for this rich, flavorful chicken.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the balsamic glaze. You can also try a lemon herb rice for a bright, zesty contrast to the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread or a warm baguette pairs wonderfully with this meal, perfect for soaking up the balsamic glaze.
• Wine Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. If you prefer red wine, try a Pinot Noir or a light Merlot to complement the flavors of the grilled chicken and balsamic glaze.

Print

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Glaze is an easy-to-make, yet elegant dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. The tender, smoky grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, making it a satisfying meal that’s both light and flavorful. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish can quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite!