Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is a delightful dish that combines the smokiness of grilled chicken with the rich, tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep. The marinade infuses the chicken with a savory depth, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious meal without fuss.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard adds a unique twist that’s sure to please your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with salad, pasta, or on a sandwich; this grilled chicken fits any meal plan.
• Healthy Option: Low in carbs and packed with protein, it’s great for fitness-focused diets like Paleo or Whole30.
• Perfectly Juicy: The marinating process ensures that each bite is tender and flavorful.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar, gather your tools. Using the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving that perfect grill.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Ziploc bag or container
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: This is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Ziploc Bag: Ideal for marinating; it allows the chicken to soak up all the flavors evenly.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining your marinade ingredients efficiently.
• Tongs: Great for flipping the chicken safely while grilling.

Ingredients

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar features simple yet tasty ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 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

• In a mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, dried parsley, dried shallots (or onions), Spike seasoning, dried thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper.
• Whisk together until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and make small slits crosswise along each piece to help marinade absorption.
• Place the chicken in a Ziploc bag or container and pour the marinade over it.
• Seal tightly and refrigerate for 4-6 hours (or longer if desired).

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

• When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

• Remove chicken from the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.
• Place chicken diagonally on grill grates. Cook for about 3 minutes until grill marks form.
• Rotate chicken diagonally in the opposite direction and cook for an additional few minutes.

Step 5: Check Doneness

• Flip chicken over once grill marks appear on both sides.
• Cook until firm but not hard to touch; about a few more minutes depending on thickness.

Step 6: Serve

• Remove from grill when done and allow resting briefly before slicing. Garnish with fresh 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 delicious; it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and sauces. You can elevate your meal by exploring different serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of the chicken.

Fresh Salad

• A vibrant green salad topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring out the smoky notes of the grilled chicken while adding color and nutrition to your plate.

Quinoa Pilaf

• A warm quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs and nuts offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the balsamic marinade.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort and richness, making them an ideal side for soaking up any leftover balsamic sauce.

Couscous Salad

• A light couscous salad with lemon zest and parsley enhances the dish’s Mediterranean flair, balancing the chicken’s bold flavors.

Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping into any leftover marinade or sauce, creating an enjoyable dining experience.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Making perfect grilled chicken requires careful attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results:

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 6–8 hours (or overnight) intensifies the flavor from the balsamic vinegar and spices.

• Even Thickness: Ensure all chicken breasts are of uniform thickness. This promotes even cooking and prevents drying out.

• Preheat Grill: Always preheat your grill properly. A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption without overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Pairing sides with Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar enhances your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options you can consider:

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Seasoned with olive oil and herbs, roasted sweet potatoes add sweetness that complements the tangy chicken.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and nutrients, making it a healthy side choice that balances rich flavors.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing brings a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the grilled chicken.

4. Wild Rice Blend: A mix of wild rice adds depth and heartiness, creating a satisfying accompaniment to your protein-rich meal.

5. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables offers a colorful, vibrant option bursting with flavor.

6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the grilled chicken.

7. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make excellent vessels for enjoying every bit of sauce left on your plate.

8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter is a classic summer favorite that pairs beautifully with any grilled dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling chicken can be challenging, but avoiding a few common mistakes can lead to perfect results every time.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always allow the chicken to soak in the balsamic vinegar marinade for at least a few hours.

• Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it.

• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many chicken breasts at once can drop the grill temperature and create steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary.

• Using high heat throughout cooking: Cooking on high heat for too long can burn the chicken’s exterior while leaving it undercooked inside. Start with medium-high heat and adjust as needed.

• Neglecting to check doneness: Relying only on cooking time might not yield safe results. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

• Place cooled grilled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer for best 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: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying out.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats besides chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pork or turkey, but adjust cooking times accordingly as they may vary from chicken.

What are some good side dishes for Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar?

Pair this dish with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa for a complete meal.

How do I make Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar less tangy?

To reduce tanginess, use less balsamic vinegar or mix in honey or maple syrup for sweetness before marinating.

How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is best for accuracy.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. This dish can easily adapt to your taste preferences—feel free to add herbs or spices you love! Try it today, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Print

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is a succulent dish that marries the smoky flavors of grilled chicken with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar. Ideal for summer gatherings, family dinners, or meal prepping, this recipe stands out thanks to its easy preparation and delicious marinade. The infusion of balsamic and Dijon mustard not only tantalizes your taste buds but also ensures that each bite is juicy and flavorful. Serve it alongside fresh salads, grilled veggies, or hearty grains for a well-rounded meal that caters to various dietary preferences.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 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
• 1 T Spike seasoning
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. coarse ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, dried parsley, shallots, Spike seasoning, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Trim chicken breasts and cut small slits for marinating. Place in a Ziploc bag with the marinade and refrigerate for 4-6 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
4. Grill chicken for about 3 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
5. Let rest briefly before serving with garnished fresh parsley.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (120g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 340mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg