Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken and tangy balsamic for a flavor explosion. Perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or meal prep, this recipe showcases how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors, making it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard creates a rich, tangy profile that elevates the chicken.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip up this dish even on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it alongside salads, pasta, or grilled veggies for a complete meal that fits any palate.
• Healthier Option: Lean protein from chicken breasts makes this dish nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Perfectly Grilled: Achieve restaurant-quality grilled chicken right at home with simple techniques.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking much easier. Here are some essentials you’ll need to prepare Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Ziploc bag or container with snap-tight lid
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: It’s essential for achieving those perfect grill marks and smoky flavors in your chicken.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without making a mess.
• Colander: Helps drain excess marinade effectively before grilling.

Ingredients

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is a favorite recipe I’ve made for years.

For the Chicken

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Marinade

• 2/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup olive oil

For Seasoning

• 1 T dried parsley
• 1 T dried shallots or onion (or 2 T minced fresh shallots or onion)
• 1 T Spike seasoning (see notes)
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. coarse ground black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

• If desired, use a mortar and pestle or spice grinder to grind together the dried parsley, dried shallots (or onions), Spike seasoning, dried thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper.
• Mix the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and spices in a mixing bowl to create a flavorful marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Trim all fat and tendons from the chicken breasts. Make small slits crosswise along each breast to ensure even cooking and better marinade absorption.
• Place the trimmed chicken into a Ziploc bag or container with a snap-tight lid. Pour the marinade over the chicken and ensure it’s well coated.
• Marinate in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours or more; overnight is ideal if you’re busy during the day.

Step 3: Prepare to Grill

• When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge and drain off excess marinade using a colander in the sink. Let it come to room temperature while heating your grill.
• Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates using a wadded-up paper towel dipped in oil or non-stick grilling spray.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

• Lay the marinated chicken diagonally across the hot grill grates with the top side down first. Cook until you see good grill marks forming (about 3 minutes).
• Rotate each piece so it cooks diagonally in the opposite direction for another few minutes until marked nicely.
• Flip each piece once you have desired grill marks. Cook until browned on both sides; this usually takes only a few more minutes unless your breasts are particularly thick. Check doneness by pressing lightly; it should feel firm but not hard.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Once cooked through, remove from heat and let rest briefly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is not just a delicious main dish; it can be served in various ways to elevate your meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner, these serving suggestions will help you make the most of this flavorful chicken.

On a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing.
• Caesar Salad: Add grilled chicken to a classic Caesar salad for extra protein and flavor.

In a Sandwich

• Chicken Sandwich: Place sliced grilled chicken between two pieces of crusty bread, add lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tasty sandwich.
• Wrap: Wrap the chicken in a tortilla with fresh veggies and hummus or tzatziki for a refreshing meal.

With Pasta

• Pasta Primavera: Toss sliced grilled chicken with pasta, sautéed vegetables, and olive oil for a hearty dish.
• Pesto Pasta: Combine the chicken with pesto pasta for an aromatic flavor experience.

As Tacos

• Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in soft tortillas topped with avocado, cilantro, and lime juice for a fresh twist.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

To achieve tender, juicy grilled chicken every time, follow these essential tips. These will ensure your Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar turns out perfectly each time you make it.

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours. This helps infuse flavors deeply into the meat.
• Even Thickness: Ensure all chicken breasts are of equal thickness. This promotes even cooking and prevents dryness.
• Room Temperature Before Cooking: Let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This aids in even cooking.
• Use High Heat: Preheat your grill adequately to get those beautiful grill marks while sealing in moisture.
• Don’t Overcook: Remove the chicken from the grill when it feels firm but not hard. Overcooking leads to dryness.
• Rest Before Slicing: Let the grilled chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute for better flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar can enhance your meal experience significantly. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon zest adds freshness and balances flavors nicely.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover balsamic marinade or juices from the chicken.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that pairs well with the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs works as a neutral base that complements the bold flavors of grilled chicken.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled alongside your chicken provide a healthy green side that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling chicken may seem simple, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marination Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate for enough time can result in bland flavor. Aim for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight.
• Using Cold Chicken: Cooking chicken straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Always let it come to room temperature before grilling.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill can lower the temperature and cause steaming instead of grilling. Give each piece space for even cooking.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat your grill can prevent proper searing and result in sticking. Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken.
• Ignoring Thickness: Cooking chicken breasts of varying thicknesses together can lead to uneven doneness. Try to trim them to similar sizes for consistent cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking regularly to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar?

Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Can I use other meats with this marinade?

Yes! This balsamic marinade works well with pork chops, turkey, and even vegetables if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.

What side dishes go well with Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar?

Pair it with salads, grilled vegetables, or quinoa for a balanced meal that complements the flavors of the chicken.

How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can also check by pressing; it should feel firm but not hard.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is a flavorful and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Its ability to absorb rich flavors makes it an ideal choice for meal prep or family gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!