Description
This Balsamic Chicken Marinade makes the most tender, juicy and flavorful pan seared or grilled chicken recipe.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 large lemon, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey, optional
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step: Place 1 chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag. Using a meat pounder or rolling pin, pound the chicken lightly into an even thickness. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
- Step: In a large resealable bag, mix together the balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, basil, honey, salt and pepper. If using a bowl, whisk the ingredients to combine.
- Step: Add the chicken and toss until coated with the marinade. If using a resealable bag, gently squeeze the air out. Marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Step: When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes before cooking.
- Step: To grill: Preheat grill over medium-high heat (400 to 450°F). Grease grates with oil. Cook on direct heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side, then move to indirect heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Step: Stove top: Grease a skillet and heat to medium-high. Add chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
Notes
Do not marinate for more than 4 hours as the acid can change the texture of the meat. It is not necessary to prick or score the chicken before marinating.
- Prep Time: PT5M
- Cook Time: PT10M
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Pan Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breast
- Calories: 278 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 715 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 72 mg
Keywords: balsamic chicken, marinade, grilled chicken, pan seared chicken, easy chicken recipe