Easy Balsamic Baked Chicken Recipe

Name: Easy Balsamic Baked Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Transform your weeknight dinners with this Easy Balsamic Baked Chicken. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a delightful balsamic vinegar mixture, then baked to perfection, resulting in a dish that's both flavorful and simple to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy families seeking a delicious, healthy meal without the fuss and makes a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-11-24T08:08:47.689Z

This recipe for Easy Balsamic Baked Chicken has been a family favorite for years!

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of this Easy Balsamic Baked Chicken recipe is its simplicity. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal marinating while you take care of other tasks. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor, and because it requires minimal hands-on effort, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without the hassle.

Moreover, the ingredients used are pantry staples, meaning you can whip up this dish without a last-minute trip to the grocery store. The combination of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs creates a rich, savory taste that elevates the chicken thighs, making it a family favorite.

Health Benefits of Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic vinegar isn’t just a tasty addition to your marinades; it also offers several health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, it helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This vinegar is derived from grape must, which means it retains some nutritional benefits of grapes, including polyphenols that support heart health.

In this recipe, the balsamic vinegar not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also contributes to a healthier meal option for your family. By incorporating this ingredient into your cooking routine, you're choosing a flavorful way to boost your health while enjoying a delicious dish.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Easy Balsamic Baked Chicken, the possibilities are endless. This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that can suit any palate. For a light option, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad loaded with seasonal vegetables. The crispness of the salad complements the richness of the chicken perfectly.

Alternatively, you can serve this dish with roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, roasted to caramelized perfection, can bring out the acidity of the balsamic marinade while adding a nutritious element to your dinner plate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they are well-coated in the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Easy Balsamic Baked Chicken!

This dish pairs well with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this Easy Balsamic Baked Chicken stores well in the refrigerator. Simply place any uneaten chicken in an airtight container and store it for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making for a tasty lunch option the following day.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Once cooled, wrap individual portions tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Making It Your Own

One of the beauties of this recipe is how customizable it is. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your family’s preferences. For a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the marinade, or switch out the basil for rosemary or thyme to give it a different flavor profile.

You can also try marinating the chicken for longer than 30 minutes—up to overnight in the refrigerator—for an even more intense flavor. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your taste, making it a staple family recipe that you'll keep coming back to.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can make this ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for easy reheating.