Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is a delicious dish perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep. This recipe combines succulent chicken breasts with a tangy balsamic marinade, creating an irresistible flavor that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a casual weeknight meal, this dish will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have your chicken marinating while you finish other tasks.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard creates a rich flavor that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with salads, pasta, or grilled veggies for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
• Healthy Option: This dish is high in protein and low in carbs, making it suitable for various diets like Paleo and Whole30.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner option.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These tools will help ensure that your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Ziploc bag or snap-tight container
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mortar and pestle or spice grinder (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect heat needed for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Ziploc bag or snap-tight container: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without any mess.
• Mixing bowl: Keeps your marinade ingredients organized before combining them.
• Mortar and pestle or spice grinder: Helps achieve finer spices for a more robust flavor profile in your marinade.

Ingredients

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar requires fresh ingredients to make the most flavorful dish.

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: Make 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 to create a flavorful marinade.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Trim all fat and tendons from chicken breasts. Ensure they are close to the same thickness for even cooking.
• Make small slits crosswise along each chicken breast to help them cook evenly and provide more surface area for the marinade.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

• Place the chicken in a Ziploc bag or snap-tight container laying them flat.
• Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal. Marinate in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours or longer if desired.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

• When ready to cook, take the chicken out of the fridge. Drain excess marinade using a colander.
• Allow chicken to come to room temperature while you heat your grill to medium-high.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

• Oil your grill grates using a wadded-up paper towel dipped in oil.
• Lay chicken diagonally across grill grates top side down first. Cook until grill marks appear (about 3 minutes).

Step 6: Finish Cooking

• Rotate chicken so it’s going diagonally in another direction; cook for a few more minutes until desired grill marks appear.
• Turn chicken over; cook until browned on both sides and firm but not hard to touch (a few minutes longer unless thick).

Step 7: Serve

This grilled chicken can be served hot off the grill or stored for meal prep throughout the week! Enjoy with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways that enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Fresh Salad

• A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. The crunch of the veggies complements the tender chicken.

Pasta Dish

• Toss slices of grilled chicken into a warm pasta dish, coated in a light olive oil or tomato sauce. This creates a satisfying main course that is both filling and flavorful.

Sandwich or Wrap

• Use grilled chicken as the main protein in a sandwich or wrap. Add lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite spread for a quick and tasty lunch option.

Rice Bowl

• Serve sliced grilled chicken over a bed of rice, topped with steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal. This combination offers a great balance of protein and carbs.

Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and use it as filling for tacos. Top with avocado, salsa, and cheese for an exciting twist on traditional tacos.

Charcuterie Board

• Include slices of grilled chicken on a charcuterie board along with cheeses, olives, and nuts. It adds variety to your platter and makes for an impressive appetizer.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

For the best results when making Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar, keep these tips in mind to ensure juicy and flavorful chicken every time.

• Marinate longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
• Even thickness: Ensure all chicken breasts are of uniform thickness for consistent cooking.
• Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is hot enough before placing the chicken on it to achieve those perfect grill marks.
• Don’t flip too soon: Wait until you see clear grill marks before flipping the chicken to maintain those beautiful sear marks.
• Use meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption without overcooking.
• Rest after cooking: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moistness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of this dish well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside grilled chicken.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese offers a healthy grain option.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings brightness and a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled alongside the chicken make for an elegant side.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds natural sweetness that balances out the savory notes of your main dish.
7. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic reduction create a classic pairing.
8. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices serves as a great base or side dish to complement your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 4-6 hours, or even overnight for best results.

• Using uneven chicken breasts: Cooking chicken breasts of different sizes can result in overcooked or undercooked pieces. Try to trim and pound them to a uniform thickness before grilling.

• Not preheating the grill: Failing to heat the grill properly may cause chicken to stick or cook unevenly. Always preheat your grill to medium-high for perfect sear marks.

• Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature and prevent proper cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.

• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its internal temperature can lead to dry meat or foodborne illness. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing for best freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

• Place cooked 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.

Reheating Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of vinegar for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for different flavor profiles.

How do I ensure my grilled chicken is juicy?

Marinating your chicken is key! The balsamic vinegar not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.

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

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa for a complete meal.

Can I grill this chicken on a stovetop?

Absolutely! A stovetop grill pan works well and gives similar results as an outdoor grill.

How do I store leftovers of Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Vinegar is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe can easily be customized by adding herbs or spices according to your taste. Whether served as a main dish or sliced over salads and sandwiches, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!