Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. This Grilled Honey Balsamic Chicken is not just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that marries the perfect balance of sweet honey, tangy balsamic vinegar, and perfectly charred chicken. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that looks impressive, tastes extraordinary, and will become an instant favorite in your recipe collection.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until well combined.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Place chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on the first side, with the grill lid closed, until nice grill marks form.
- Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps keep the meat tender and moist.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme before serving. Pair with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but don't exceed 4 hours to prevent the acid from breaking down the meat's texture.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.
- Grill Preparation: Clean and oil your grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking and achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to lock in juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Flavor Boosters: For an extra flavor punch, try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme just before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this chicken with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or grains like quinoa or rice to create a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 355kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 54g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 120mg
