Balsamic Chicken Marinade

If you’re searching for a simple yet show-stopping way to elevate your weeknight dinners, look no further than this Balsamic Chicken Marinade! Bursting with sweet, tangy, and savory notes, this marinade transforms ordinary chicken into a tender, flavorful masterpiece.

Picture this: juicy chicken infused with balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic, sizzling to perfection. It’s quick, versatile, and oh-so delicious — perfect for busy families or anyone who loves bold, balanced flavors.

Fun fact: balsamic vinegar has been beloved in Italian kitchens for centuries, prized for its rich, complex flavor that pairs beautifully with meats, veggies, and even fruits. If you loved our Lemon Garlic Chicken, this recipe offers a similar zesty charm with an irresistible balsamic twist.

So, grab your mixing bowl and get ready to whip up a marinade that’ll make your chicken sing with flavor!

What Is Balsamic Chicken Marinade?

You might wonder, why call it a marinade and not just a sauce? Because this recipe does more than coat — it transforms. A good marinade doesn’t just flavor the outside; it tenderizes and infuses every bite with delicious depth.

This balsamic blend combines sweet, tangy, and savory elements that soak into the chicken, creating a meal that tastes gourmet but couldn’t be simpler. As they say, “the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach” — and this recipe proves it bite after bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: Tangy balsamic vinegar, sweet honey, and aromatic garlic come together in perfect harmony.

• Quick & Easy: Just 10 minutes to prep — the marinade does the rest!

• Healthier & Fresher: No preservatives or additives like store-bought marinades.

• Customizable: Adjust sweetness, herbs, or even swap the protein (this works wonderfully with pork or tofu!).

If you love vibrant, family-friendly recipes like our Teriyaki Chicken, this balsamic version will quickly earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

How to Make Balsamic Chicken Marinade

⏱️ Quick Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 2–8 hours
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: ~25 minutes (plus marinating)
Servings: 4

This easy recipe requires only a handful of pantry staples and a little patience while the chicken marinates. The result? Tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

Ingredients

• ½ cup balsamic vinegar

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

‍ Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
   Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.

3. Refrigerate:
   Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

4. Cook the Chicken:
   Preheat your grill, skillet, or oven to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and discard excess liquid.

   • Grill or Pan-Sear: Cook for 6–7 minutes per side.

   • Bake: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
     Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

5. Rest & Serve:
   Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy!

What to Serve With Balsamic Chicken

This chicken pairs beautifully with both light and hearty sides! Try these favorites:

• Fresh garden salad with olive oil and lemon dressing

• Roasted or grilled vegetables (think asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini)

• Garlic mashed potatoes or herbed quinoa to soak up the delicious juices

• Crusty bread or couscous for an easy, balanced meal

Balsamic Chicken Marinade

A quick and flavorful marinade that transforms ordinary chicken into a succulent dish, bursting with tangy and sweet flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons honey Maple syrup can be used as an alternative.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs Feel free to substitute with fresh herbs.
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish.
3. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight for maximum flavor).

Cooking

1. Preheat your grill, skillet, or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade). Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, and slice. Serve warm with your favorite sides!

Notes

For best results, marinate chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight. Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.