How to Make the Perfect Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Italian-American · Easy · 30 min · 4 servings
Tender pan seared chicken breasts finished in a rich sticky balsamic reduction. It is an elegant yet simple weeknight dinner.
Why this recipe works
This Balsamic Glazed Chicken recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 310 calories with 42g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 9 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 0.5 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt pepper and Italian seasoning. This builds the base flavor before the glaze is added.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Glaze
In the same pan reduce heat to medium and add garlic. Cook for 30 seconds then pour in balsamic vinegar honey and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Reduce and Glaze
Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes stirring occasionally until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Return the chicken to the pan and spoon the glaze over each piece.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Cook the chicken in the glaze for 2 more minutes until fully cooked through and well coated. Serve over mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables with extra glaze drizzled on top.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- honey → maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness
- Dijon mustard → whole grain mustard for added texture
- chicken breasts → chicken thighs for a richer and more forgiving cut
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Do not skip searing the chicken as the brown crust adds critical depth of flavor
- Do not rush the glaze reduction or it will be too thin to stick to the chicken
- Do not overcook the chicken or it will become dry especially with breast meat
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 310 calories, 42g protein, 12g carbs, 8g fat, 0g fiber.
Ready to cook?
Get the interactive recipe with adjustable servings, built-in timers, and ingredient checklist.
View full recipe →