This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you when you make a purchase. Find out more in the Disclosure Policy
Easy and flavorful balsamic chicken breasts add a delicious Italian twist to weeknight baked chicken. Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with a dash of wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil dressing and you have a healthy meal.
Baked chicken is a pretty routine dish on my menu rotation. I am always looking for way to change up the flavor of chicken so we don't get in a rut.
This Easy Balsamic Chicken Breasts recipe does just that and it is ready in just about 30 minutes. Made with simple ingredients you probably have on hand, it is an simple dish that will give you lots of flavor.
Ingredients in Balsamic Chicken Breasts
Chicken breasts are the main protein for this dish. A serving size of a half breast should provide between a 4-5 ounce portion.
Garlic salt, pepper, and tender sautéed onions in extra virgin olive oil create a base to cook the chicken.
Tomatoes and balsamic vinegar provide the flavor punch that sets this dish apart.
The Italian spice mix and paprika add depth to the chicken and vegetables.
Fresh spinach adds flavor and color contrast.
Substitutions When You are Out
Out of chicken breasts? Substitute chicken thighs.
I prefer to cook with Petite Diced Tomatoes. But you can easily use any type of canned tomatoes you have in your pantry. Fresh will work too. You will need to adjust cooking time to allow for the fresh tomatoes.
If you are out of balsamic vinegar you can substitute red wine vinegar. The flavor of this savory dish will be less sweet. If you prefer you can add a teaspoon of molasses or honey to approximate the sweetness of the balsamic.
I keep a large container of Italian seasoning in my pantry. I like to use this because it is a mix of commonly used spices. Alternatively, you can add basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and parsley to approximate the flavors of Italian seasoning.
Cooking Tip for Balsamic Chicken Breasts
One of the key cooking tools I can't live without when cooking chicken is a temperature probe. (#ad) I use it to ensure that my chicken doesn't overcook and become dry and tough.
Remember to remove your chicken from the pan when the internal temperature of the piece of chicken just reaches 165 degrees F.
What to Serve with Balsamic Chicken Breasts
This dish is great with a leafy green salad dressed with vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Serve with a crust of bread and a glass of red wine and you have a delicious meal.
Other dishes to compliment this dish include a small side of Healthy and Light Pasta and Broccoli.
For more chicken recipes, check out my round up of Healthy Chicken Recipes.
Balsamic Chicken Breasts
Equipment
Ingredients
- 24 ounces chicken breasts roughly 3 breast
- 15 ounces tomatoes petite diced
- 1 cup onion thinnly sliced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 11/2 tsp Italian spice mix
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1 cup spinach fresh
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts in half into equal portions. Sprinkle chicken with garlic salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add chicken breasts. Saute for 5 minutes over medium low heat. Turn and cook for an additional five minutes.
- Add tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, Italian spice mix, and paprika. Simmer for 10 minutes over low heat.
- Add spinach to sauce during last 5 minutes and cook until wilted.
- The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F with a temperature probe.
Leave a Reply