Looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful chicken recipe that delivers both elegance and ease? These Balsamic Marinated Baked Chicken Breasts check every box. With minimal prep, pantry-staple ingredients, and a marinade that deeply infuses the meat with tangy, herbaceous, and slightly sweet flavors, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.

The combination of balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and herbs creates a balanced, rich flavor profile that turns ordinary chicken breasts into something truly crave-worthy. Whether served with a fresh salad, over rice, or alongside roasted vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Balsamic Marinated Baked Chicken Breasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and quick prep: Just a few minutes of mixing and marinating.
Bold, tangy flavor: Balsamic vinegar and honey create the perfect sweet and sour balance.
Versatile pairing: Goes well with everything from grains to greens.
Meal-prep friendly: Store it for up to 4 days—perfect for lunches or quick dinners.
Healthy and wholesome: Naturally gluten-free and packed with protein.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, oregano, and thyme until fully combined and the honey has dissolved.
Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of black pepper).

Marinating the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Preparing for Baking

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove chicken from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
Line a baking dish with foil or parchment paper, or grease lightly with olive oil.

Baking the Chicken

Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared dish. Pour any leftover marinade on top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Optional: Baste the chicken halfway through with the pan juices.

Finishing Touches

Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes after baking.
Slice into thick pieces and garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
Serve with roasted vegetables, salad, or rice.

Variations

Add mozzarella and tomatoes: After baking, top with fresh mozzarella slices and halved cherry tomatoes. Return to the oven for 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Use chicken thighs: For even juicier results, try boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Grilled version: Marinate as instructed, then grill over medium heat for about 6–7 minutes per side.
Add heat: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Storage and Reheating

To store: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Store cooked and cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
To reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through. Add a splash of broth to prevent drying out.

FAQ

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, you can marinate it overnight for stronger flavor, but no longer than 24 hours to prevent the meat from breaking down.

Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, just increase the baking time to 35–40 minutes, depending on the size.

What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted potatoes, couscous, sautéed greens, or a simple caprese salad are excellent options.

Conclusion

This Balsamic Marinated Baked Chicken is everything you want in a chicken dinner: easy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re entertaining guests or prepping lunches for the week, this recipe brings gourmet flavor with minimal effort.