How to Make the Perfect Quick Balsamic Chicken
Italian · Easy · 15 min · 4 servings
This Quick Balsamic Chicken features tender pan-seared chicken thighs glazed in a rich, tangy balsamic reduction ready in 15 minutes. It is one of the most elegant yet simple quick dinners you can make any night of the week.
Why this recipe works
This Quick Balsamic Chicken recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 330 calories with 38g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, pounded even
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Season chicken thighs on both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 5 minutes on the first side without moving until golden.
Step 2: Flip and Cook Through
Flip the chicken thighs and cook for 4 to 5 more minutes until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Transfer to a plate.
Step 3: Make Balsamic Glaze
Add garlic to the same pan and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in balsamic vinegar and honey, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly thickened and syrupy.
Step 4: Glaze and Serve
Return chicken to the pan and spoon balsamic glaze over each piece, turning to coat completely. Serve immediately with the remaining glaze drizzled on top.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- chicken thighs → chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
- honey → maple syrup or brown sugar
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using cold chicken straight from the refrigerator which leads to uneven cooking
- Simmering the balsamic glaze too long which makes it overly thick and bitter
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 330 calories, 38g protein, 8g carbs, 14g fat, 0g fiber.
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