Name: Balsamic Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (pounded to an even thickness); 2 tsp Tastefully Simple® Avocado Oil; 1 tbsp Tastefully Simple® Rustic Herb Seasoning; 8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced); 2 large ripe tomatoes (sliced); 2 tbsp freshly sliced basil; ½ cup Tastefully Simple® Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena; 2 tbsp brown sugar

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The moment I first tasted Balsamic Grilled Chicken, I was transported to a sun-soaked backyard barbecue, where laughter mingled with the sizzling sound of chicken on the grill. It was a day filled with warmth, friends, and an irresistible aroma wafting through the air. Grilling has a magical way of bringing people together, and this dish is no exception. With its juicy chicken, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant tomatoes, Balsamic Grilled Chicken quickly became a staple at my family gatherings. I remember the first time I prepared it for a summer dinner. My guests couldn’t get enough—each bite was bursting with flavor, and the homemade balsamic glaze made it truly unforgettable.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Large Pot, Saucepan, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

What Sets This Balsamic Grilled Chicken Apart

It’s All About the Flavor

I simply love how the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar complements the savory notes of the grilled chicken. This dish truly showcases the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something magical.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive summer gathering, Balsamic Grilled Chicken fits perfectly into any setting. It’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family, no matter the occasion.

Easy to Prepare

Don’t let the impressive taste fool you; this recipe is surprisingly simple to whip up. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something that feels special.

All About Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of the ingredients truly sets this dish apart. Using ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil elevates the dish, creating a burst of flavor that’s bound to leave an impression. Trust me, the quality of your mozzarella makes a huge difference!

Grilling Is an Art

There’s something therapeutic about grilling. Watching the ingredients transform under heat, the aromas filling the air, and the anticipation of that first bite—it’s an experience worth savoring. This recipe allows you to practice your grilling skills while delivering a fantastic result.

Great for Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, they make for an incredible next-day lunch! The flavors deepen overnight, and you can easily toss the chicken onto a salad or into a sandwich for a quick meal.

Everything You Need for Balsamic Grilled Chicken

The ingredients in this recipe have a beautiful harmony that creates a flavor explosion. Each plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of sweet and savory. You’ll find that the star is definitely the chicken, which is complemented perfectly by the balsamic vinegar and fresh mozzarella. Together, they bring this dish to life, making it a go-to for any cook.

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, pounded to an even thickness – Tender and juicy, this is the base of your dish.
2 tsp Tastefully Simple® Avocado Oil – Light and flavorful, perfect for grilling.
1 tbsp Tastefully Simple® Rustic Herb Seasoning – A blend that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced – Creamy and rich, adding a wonderful texture.
2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced – Juicy and fresh, they brighten up the dish.
2 tbsp freshly sliced basil – Aromatic and vibrant, a must for that Italian flair.
½ cup Tastefully Simple® Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena – The star ingredient that ties everything together.
2 tbsp brown sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.

Directions for Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Grilling is such a rewarding process, especially when you’re preparing Balsamic Grilled Chicken. With just a few steps, you’ll create a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Let me guide you through the process so you can impress yourself and others!

Start by heating your grill to 375 degrees F. This is a great temperature for achieving that perfect sear on the chicken. If your grill grates need some TLC, give them a light oiling to prevent sticking.
Take your chicken breasts and drizzle them with avocado oil. This oil not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the meat moist as it cooks. Next, season each piece generously with Tastefully Simple® Rustic Herb Seasoning. Make sure to coat it evenly for the best flavor.
Now, it’s time to place the chicken on the grill. Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. It’s crucial to get a good sear, so resist the urge to flip too early!
Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil. This resting period is important as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
While the chicken rests, let’s prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and brown sugar. Heat over medium-high until it begins to boil, then reduce to medium-low heat. Allow it to simmer for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until it thickens to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
When the glaze is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. This will help it thicken even more as it sits.
Now for the final touch: slice your rested chicken and plate it beautifully. Top with fresh slices of mozzarella, tomato, and a sprinkle of fresh basil for that vibrant look.
Finally, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top. It not only looks stunning but adds a perfect finish to your dish!
Enjoy your Balsamic Grilled Chicken warm, and savor the delightful blend of flavors that you’ve created. Your guests will be raving about this dish!

Things Worth Knowing

Grill Temperature: Always preheat your grill to ensure even cooking and to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
Resting Time: Don’t skip resting the chicken; it’s crucial for juicy results.
Balsamic Glaze Consistency: The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, continue to simmer until it thickens.
Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and basil make a significant flavor difference, so choose the ripest options you can find.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Let’s talk about some fantastic tips to elevate your Balsamic Grilled Chicken experience. These tweaks can help you tailor the dish to your taste and make it even more enjoyable!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezing: You can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with a light salad or grilled vegetables for a fresh side that complements the chicken.
Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist on seasoning.
Serving Style: Serve the chicken as a sandwich, in wraps, or over pasta for a heartier meal.

What to Serve Alongside Balsamic Grilled Chicken

When it comes to serving Balsamic Grilled Chicken, the options are endless. To make the meal truly special, consider these fantastic pairings:

Grilled Vegetables: Pair with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a colorful plate.
Light Salad: A fresh arugula or spinach salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread: Serve warm, toasted garlic bread as a side to soak up any extra glaze.
Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella makes for a refreshing side dish.
Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf can balance the flavors well while adding heartiness to the meal.
Seasonal Fruits: For dessert, consider a fruit platter with seasonal fruits to cleanse the palate.

FAQ

While it’s best to use fresh chicken for Balsamic Grilled Chicken to ensure optimal flavor and texture, you can certainly use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent the outside from overcooking while the inside remains frozen.

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of honey to mimic the sweetness. However, this will slightly change the flavor profile of the dish, so be aware that it won’t taste exactly the same as the original recipe.

Leftovers of Balsamic Grilled Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the chicken and the glaze separate to maintain freshness. You can reheat it in the oven or on a skillet to keep the chicken moist.

Absolutely! The balsamic glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed jar for up to two weeks. Just remember to give it a good shake or stir before using it again, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.

Conclusion

Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a delightful combination of flavors that adds a special touch to any meal. The juicy chicken, fresh ingredients, and homemade glaze make this dish a standout in my kitchen. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! This recipe will not only satisfy your cravings but also impress your family and friends.