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Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

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This easy, gourmet balsamic baked chicken breast is juicy, flavorful, and coated in a glossy, tangy-sweet glaze. It’s a healthy, low carb dinner that feels fancy but comes together quickly with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, or sugar-free syrup for keto, or omit for strict low carb)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and position a rack in the center.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian herbs, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  3. Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat. Reserve the rest for basting. Marinate at least 15 minutes (30 minutes or up to overnight for more flavor).
  4. Arrange marinated chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the chicken, if using. Pour any leftover marinade from the bag over the top, then drizzle with reserved marinade.
  5. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, depending on thickness. Halfway through (around 10-12 minutes), spoon some pan juices over each breast.
  6. Check for doneness: chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. If tops brown too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 5-10 minutes.
  7. Let chicken rest in the baking dish for 5 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley to serve.
  8. Optional: For a thicker sauce, remove chicken when done and simmer pan juices on the stovetop until syrupy. Spoon over chicken to serve.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. Don’t overcook—use a thermometer for juicy results. If you want a thicker glaze, simmer the pan juices after baking. Chicken thighs can be substituted (bake 18-20 minutes). For keto, omit honey or use a sugar-free sweetener. Leftovers keep well for meal prep and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, baked chicken breast, low carb dinner, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken, gluten-free, keto, meal prep, weeknight dinner, oven baked chicken

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/balsamic-baked-chicken-breast-recipe-easy-gourmet-low-carb-dinner/