Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes Recipe

Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes is an elegant and flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of chicken with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar and the freshness of ripe tomatoes. The savory glaze created by the balsamic vinegar pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. This dish is a wonderful option for those who are looking for a healthy yet indulgent meal, and it’s versatile enough to be paired with various side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.

In this recipe, the chicken is seared to golden perfection, and the balsamic vinegar creates a glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness and color, making the dish not only flavorful but visually appealing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Now, let’s dive into the full details of how to prepare this dish, with step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to make it your own.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now let’s walk through each step of this recipe, ensuring that you understand the process and can achieve a perfect result every time.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Season the chicken:
   • Begin by placing the chicken breasts on a cutting board or plate. Use paper towels to pat them dry and remove any excess moisture. This step ensures that the chicken sears properly and gets a nice golden-brown crust.
   • Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Be sure to season both sides of the chicken to ensure even flavor.
2. Sear the chicken:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
   • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. You can cover it with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

Preparing the Sauce

1. Sauté the garlic:
   • In the same skillet, add a little bit of oil or butter if necessary. Turn the heat down to medium and add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
2. Deglaze the skillet:
   • Add 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar to the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits left from searing the chicken. These bits, called fond, contain tons of flavor and will infuse your sauce with richness.
   • Stir the vinegar and garlic together, allowing the balsamic vinegar to cook down slightly for 2-3 minutes, reducing the acidity a bit.
3. Add the chicken broth and honey:
   • Stir in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of honey. The chicken broth will help form the sauce, while the honey balances the acidity of the vinegar and adds a subtle sweetness.
   • Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and thicken. Stir occasionally.
4. Finish the sauce with butter:
   • Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir the butter into the sauce until it’s fully melted and incorporated, giving the sauce a velvety texture.

Cooking the Chicken and Tomatoes

1. Add the tomatoes:
   • Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the skillet with the sauce. Stir the tomatoes into the sauce and allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften and release their juices. The tomatoes will contribute a burst of sweetness to balance the tangy vinegar.
2. Return the chicken to the skillet:
   • Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and tomatoes. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated.
   • Let the chicken cook in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You can also cover the skillet with a lid during this step to help the chicken absorb more flavor.

Serving the Dish

1. Plate the chicken:
   • Once the chicken is fully coated in the sauce and the tomatoes are soft and bursting with flavor, remove the skillet from the heat. Plate the chicken breasts, spooning some of the sauce and tomatoes over the top.
2. Garnish:
   • Finish the dish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Fresh parsley can also be used as a garnish to add color and a fresh herbal note.
3. Serve:
   • Serve the Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes with your choice of side dishes. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or a side of rice. Enjoy the savory, tangy, and sweet flavors in every bite.

Tips for Success

To ensure that this dish turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

• Use fresh, ripe tomatoes: The flavor of fresh tomatoes really shines in this dish. Choose sweet cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, which hold up well in cooking and add a pop of sweetness to the sauce.
• Adjust the balsamic vinegar: If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a little more honey. For a more tangy flavor, increase the balsamic vinegar. Taste the sauce before adding the chicken and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: To keep the chicken tender and juicy, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness.
• Use a high-quality balsamic vinegar: Since balsamic vinegar is a key component of the sauce, choose a high-quality, aged balsamic vinegar for the best flavor. It will create a rich, deep flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Let the sauce reduce: Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce for a few minutes before adding the chicken back in. This helps concentrate the flavors and gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture.

Variations

1. Add Vegetables:
   • You can add other vegetables to the sauce for extra flavor and texture. Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers to the sauce for added color and nutrition.
2. Balsamic Chicken with Spinach:
   • For a heartier dish, add fresh spinach to the skillet after cooking the tomatoes. The spinach will wilt into the sauce, adding color and extra flavor. You can also add a bit of cream to create a creamy balsamic sauce.
3. Spicy Balsamic Chicken:
   • For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or toss in a chopped jalapeño along with the garlic. The heat will balance out the sweetness of the balsamic vinegar and honey.
4. Grilled Balsamic Chicken:
   • For a smokier flavor, grill the chicken breasts instead of pan-searing them. After grilling, toss the chicken in the balsamic vinegar sauce and tomatoes, then serve.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. The Sauce Is Too Thin:
   • If your sauce doesn’t thicken as expected, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and concentrate. You can also add a little cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) to thicken the sauce.
2. Chicken Is Dry:
   • Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you find the chicken is dry, try adding a bit of chicken broth or cream to the sauce to moisten it.
3. Tomatoes Are Too Tart:
   • If your tomatoes are too tart, add a little more honey to balance the acidity. You can also use a mix of sweet and regular tomatoes to achieve a more balanced flavor.

Conclusion

Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the savory goodness of chicken with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar and the sweetness of ripe tomatoes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of fresh ingredients and the balanced, rich sauce makes every bite a delicious experience. Try this dish today for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion!

Yield: 4

Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes Recipe

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Balsamic Chicken with Tomatoes is an elegant and flavorful dish that combines the tenderness of chicken with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar and the freshness of ripe tomatoes. The savory glaze created by the balsamic vinegar pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. This dish is a wonderful option for those who are looking for a healthy yet indulgent meal, and it’s versatile enough to be paired with various side dishes like mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped, optional for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
4. Make the balsamic glaze: Add the balsamic vinegar to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir to combine and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, stir in honey or brown sugar. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
5. Combine the chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the balsamic tomato mixture over the chicken. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve the balsamic chicken with a side of vegetables, rice, or pasta.

Notes

• For extra flavor: Add a splash of chicken broth or wine when making the glaze to enhance the depth of the sauce.
• Low-carb option: Serve with a side of cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a low-carb meal.
• Chicken alternatives: This recipe works well with chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but you may need to adjust cooking time slightly.