If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and has that perfect grilled char, you’ve got to try this Grilled Herb-Infused Balsamic Chicken Recipe. It’s a simple yet elegant combination of fresh herbs and tangy balsamic vinegar that tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with mouthwatering depth. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests on the weekend, this recipe delivers that irresistible, juicy bite every time, making it a true favorite in my kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Grilled Herb-Infused Balsamic Chicken Recipe lies in its straightforward and fresh ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors, from the bright acidity of balsamic vinegar to the earthy aroma of fresh herbs, making it a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas for soaking up the marinade, ensuring juicy, flavorful meat.
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a rich, tangy depth that tenderizes and flavors the chicken beautifully.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Helps to coat the chicken evenly and prevents it from sticking to the grill.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, savory undertone that complements the herbs perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Offers a piney, slightly citrusy note that elevates the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped: Brings subtle earthiness and complexity to the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped: Adds a sweet, peppery freshness that brightens the dish.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Balances the acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and ensures the chicken is perfectly seasoned.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that rounds out the spices.
- Optional: extra herbs for garnish: For an eye-catching, fragrant finish.
How to Make Grilled Herb-Infused Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, basil, honey, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is the heart of the recipe, blending sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that will soak into the chicken for hours, ensuring every bite sings.
Step 2: Marinade the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is well coated with the luscious mixture. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly before refrigerating for a minimum of 2 hours or preferably overnight. This step is key for deep flavor infusion and tender meat.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Fire up your grill and set it to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to create those gorgeous grill marks and seal in the juices without overcooking the chicken.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off to avoid flare-ups on the grill. Place the chicken breasts on the grill, cooking each side for 6 to 7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once off the grill, let your herb-infused chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat succulent and flavorful.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle some extra fresh herbs on top for a vibrant touch and wonderful aroma. This simple addition elevates your presentation and makes the dish look almost too good to eat.
How to Serve Grilled Herb-Infused Balsamic Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme as a garnish enhances both the look and taste of your chicken. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squirt of lemon juice also adds a gorgeous tangy brightness to the finished plate.
Side Dishes
This grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think vibrant grilled vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad. For a Mediterranean vibe, try serving with couscous or quinoa tossed with herbs and lemon zest.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on top of fresh greens for a hearty salad, or stack it atop toasted ciabatta with ripe tomatoes and mozzarella for a gourmet sandwich. You can even dice it into pasta dishes or grain bowls, letting the herb-infused flavor shine through in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it great for quick meals or lunchboxes during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts for up to 2 months. Slice or keep whole, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container to preserve flavor and moisture.
Reheating
To reheat your Grilled Herb-Infused Balsamic Chicken Recipe, warm it gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the meat. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating helps keep it juicy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available, but use about one-third of the amount because dried herbs have more concentrated flavor. The grilled chicken will still be delicious!
How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?
Marinating for at least 2 hours is essential to let the flavors deeply penetrate the chicken. For even better flavor and tenderness, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe suitable for outdoor grilling only?
While it’s designed for the grill, you can also cook the chicken on a grill pan or in a broiler indoors if needed. Just watch your cook times closely to avoid drying out the meat.
Can I use this marinade with other types of meat?
Absolutely! This herb-infused balsamic marinade works wonderfully with pork chops, turkey breasts, or even firm fish like swordfish or tuna steaks.
What’s the best way to know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest method is to use a meat thermometer and look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe the Grilled Herb-Infused Balsamic Chicken Recipe is a game changer for anyone who loves simple yet deeply flavorful meals. Its vibrant herbs, balanced with the sweet tang of balsamic, create a dish that feels both special and approachable. Give it a try at your next barbecue or dinner, and I promise it will soon become one of your go-to favorites!
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Grilled Herb-Infused Balsamic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 14m
- Total Time: 2h 29m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Herb-Infused Balsamic Chicken features juicy boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a fragrant mixture of balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of honey. Grilled to perfection with beautiful char marks, this recipe delivers a flavorful, tender, and healthy meal ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend cookout.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Extra fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, basil)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, basil, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined to form a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Refrigerate: Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the herbs and marinade to deeply infuse into the chicken meat.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, preparing it for cooking the chicken breasts.
- Grill the chicken: Remove chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, then place them on the hot grill surface.
- Cook thoroughly: Grill each side for 6 to 7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring the chicken is cooked through with appealing grill marks.
- Rest the chicken: Remove from grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with extra fresh herbs before serving to enhance aroma and presentation.
Notes
- Marinate overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (75°C).
- Allow resting time after grilling to retain juices.
- Extra herbs can be added to the marinade or as garnish for enhanced flavor.
- Can be paired with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
