Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts marinated in a rich balsamic vinegar blend. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe stands out due to its simple preparation and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish will impress your family and friends with its mouthwatering taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can marinate the chicken and let it soak up the delicious flavors.
• Flavorful: The combination of balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard creates a tangy marinade that elevates the chicken’s natural taste.
• Versatile: This grilled chicken pairs well with salads, veggies, or grains, making it an excellent option for different meals.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbohydrates, this dish fits well into various healthy eating plans.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time for easy grilling when you’re ready to eat.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your grilled chicken experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A reliable grill ensures even cooking and perfect grill marks on your chicken.
• Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating, allowing the chicken to soak in flavors evenly without mess.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently before marinating the chicken.

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
• 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

Start by mixing your marinade ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and spices.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Trim all fat from the chicken breasts. Make small slits across each piece to help them absorb the marinade better. Place them in a Ziploc bag or container. Pour in the marinade and seal tightly. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Use oil on a paper towel to grease the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let it come to room temperature while you heat the grill. Place each breast diagonally across the grill grates. Cook until you see grill marks (about 3 minutes). Rotate them for cross-hatch marks before flipping.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Once flipped, cook until browned on both sides and firm to touch. Check doneness based on thickness; adjust cooking time as needed.

This flavorful Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar will surely become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is not just a main dish; it can be the star of many delicious meal combinations. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh Spinach: Serve grilled chicken on a bed of fresh spinach for a light and nutritious meal.
• Mixed Greens: Toss together mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, then top with sliced grilled chicken for a refreshing salad.

With Grain-Based Sides

• Quinoa Salad: Pair the chicken with a quinoa salad mixed with herbs, lemon, and vegetables for extra protein and flavor.
• Brown Rice Pilaf: Serve alongside brown rice pilaf cooked with onions and spices for a hearty addition.

Wrapped in Tortillas

• Chicken Wrap: Slice the grilled chicken and wrap it in whole wheat tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing.
• Mediterranean Pita: Stuff pita pockets with grilled chicken, tzatziki sauce, and diced cucumbers for a flavorful twist.

Accompanied by Dips

• Hummus Dip: Serve warm grilled chicken slices with hummus for dipping; it’s perfect for sharing.
• Avocado Salsa: Top your chicken with avocado salsa to add creamy texture and zest.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Achieving perfectly grilled chicken is easy when you follow these essential tips.

• Marinate Longer: For enhanced flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight. This helps the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat.
• Pound Chicken Breasts: Even out the thickness by gently pounding the chicken breasts. This ensures uniform cooking and tender results.
• Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the chicken. This helps to achieve those desirable grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Complement your Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar by pairing it with delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs well with grilled chicken.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese provides a classic pairing.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter offers a simple yet delicious side that complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the balsamic vinegar marinade.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast that works beautifully alongside savory grilled chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling chicken may seem straightforward, but small errors can lead to dry or unevenly cooked meat. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind while making Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Many people underestimate the importance of marinating. To ensure maximum flavor and tenderness, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4-6 hours, or even overnight if possible.

• Neglecting Grill Temperature: Failing to preheat your grill can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Always ensure your grill is hot enough before adding the chicken—medium-high heat is ideal.

• Using Cold Chicken: Cooking chicken straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Let your marinated chicken sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before grilling to achieve even results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: It’s easy to overcook chicken, leading to dryness. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption without losing juiciness.

• Ignoring Grill Marks Technique: Failing to rotate the chicken properly can prevent those beautiful grill marks. After placing the chicken on the grill, rotate it halfway through cooking for that perfect crisscross pattern.

• Not Cleaning the Grill Grates: Dirty grates can cause sticking and off-flavors. Make sure to clean your grill grates thoroughly before heating them up for a better grilling experience.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Ensure it cools down before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

• Place grilled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts (30 seconds), checking frequently until heated through.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then cover and reheat chicken for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to marinate Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar?

Marinate your chicken for at least 4-6 hours, but overnight will yield even better flavor and tenderness.

Can I use other types of vinegar for this recipe?

Yes! While balsamic vinegar provides rich flavor, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar as alternatives.

What sides pair well with Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar?

This dish pairs excellently with roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

Can I cook this recipe indoors?

Absolutely! You can use a stovetop grill pan or an electric grill like George Foreman Grill for similar results indoors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and keeps its flavor when reheated.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is not only flavorful but also versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings alike. Feel free to customize the marinade by adding herbs or spices that you enjoy. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be delighted by its taste and ease!