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Juicy balsamic baked chicken breast in a white baking dish with golden caramelized glaze

Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast

Juicy balsamic baked chicken breast marinated in a tangy balsamic vinegar, garlic, and oregano blend, then baked to golden perfection in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 414
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6 oz each, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness if thick
  • 1/4 cup olive oil extra-virgin preferred
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar aged balsamic gives the richest glaze
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, fresh preferred
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp salt or more to taste

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Meat mallet
  • Instant-read thermometer

Method
 

  1. If the chicken breasts are thick, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until they are about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, oregano, and black pepper. Whisk until fully blended.
  3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, turning to coat evenly. Let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature if time allows.
  4. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C).
  5. Bake uncovered for 23 to 25 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165 degrees F and the tops look golden and caramelized.
  6. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For best results, do not skip pounding the chicken to an even thickness. You can marinate up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days and are great for salads, wraps, or sandwiches.