Grilled Chicken with Balsamic Marinade
A juicy and flavorful grilled chicken recipe marinated in a tangy balsamic mixture, perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts The main protein, providing a lean and versatile base for your dish.
For the Marinade
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar Adds a tangy, sweet depth to the marinade.
- 1/4 cup olive oil Helps to tenderize the chicken while adding richness.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Enhances flavor and provides a subtle sharpness.
- 1 tablespoon honey Balances the tanginess with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Infuses a savory and aromatic element.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Blends herbs and spices to complement the marinade flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a mild heat and flavor contrast.
For Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Garnish for a fresh, colorful finish.
- 2 pieces lime wedges Brightens the flavors when served.
Instructions
Preparation
- Tenderize the chicken by placing the breasts on a cutting board, covering with plastic wrap, and gently pounding the thicker areas until about 3/4 inch thick.
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
- Marinate the chicken by adding it to the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
Grilling
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) and lightly oil the grates.
- Remove excess marinade from the chicken, allowing the excess to drip off, and discard the used marinade.
- Grill the chicken on the grill for 5-7 minutes without moving it. Flip and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the thickest part reaches 165°F.
- Transfer the grilled chicken to a clean plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
For best results, choose even-sized chicken breasts, and consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Reserve part of the marinade before adding the raw chicken for a dipping sauce. If short on time, marinating for a minimum of 30 minutes will still impart great flavor.