Description
This Baked Balsamic Chicken Breast recipe is a simple, flavorful, and juicy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The chicken breasts are marinated in a tangy mixture of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and oregano, then baked to perfection. This versatile recipe pairs well with pasta, salads, or grain bowls.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt, or more to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, gently pound them using a meat mallet until they are about 1/2-inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Make the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, dried oregano, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade evenly over them. Make sure each piece is fully coated. If time allows, let the chicken sit and marinate for 10 minutes to enhance flavor penetration.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the chicken breasts for approximately 25 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C), indicating the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
Notes
- For even cooking, pounding the chicken breast to a uniform thickness is recommended.
- Marinating for longer than 10 minutes, up to a few hours in the refrigerator, can deepen the flavors.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve with your choice of pasta, salad, or grain bowl for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
