Looking for a delicious and flavorful dish to impress your dinner guests or add a touch of sophistication to your weeknight meal? Orange Balsamic Chicken is the perfect recipe for you! This savory and tangy chicken dish combines the sweetness of oranges with the rich flavor of balsamic vinegar to create a mouthwatering combination that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!
**Orange Balsamic Chicken**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This will help the chicken cook evenly and retain its moisture.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, honey, olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This flavorful marinade will infuse the chicken with a delicious taste.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, and place them in the skillet. Discard the remaining marinade.
5. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute and keep the chicken tender and juicy.
7. Serve the Orange Balsamic Chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
8. Enjoy your flavorful and elegant Orange Balsamic Chicken with your loved ones and savor the delicious combination of sweet and tangy flavors in every bite!
This recipe is a perfect choice for a special occasion dinner or when you want to elevate your regular meal rotation with something a bit fancier. The orange and balsamic flavors create a delightful harmony that will impress even the most discerning palates. Try this recipe today and watch it become a favorite in your household!
