Honey Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Name: Honey Balsamic Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Dinners

I absolutely love whipping up honey balsamic grilled chicken for dinner on warm evenings. The combination of sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar creates a wonderfully balanced marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. Grilling it allows the edges to caramelize beautifully, giving every bite a slightly smoky taste. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Monicas

Last updated on 2026-02-06T17:22:27.636Z

Every time I fire up the grill, I think of this honey balsamic grilled chicken recipe. During one of our family barbecues, I decided to experiment with a sweeter marinade, and the result was fantastic! The chicken stayed moist and tender, while the glaze gave it a beautiful sheen. I find that a brief marinating period is enough to infuse flavor without overwhelming the chicken's natural taste.

One useful tip I discovered is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and packed with flavor. When paired with a simple side salad, this dish truly shines and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
Grilling ensures juicy and tender chicken

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade is crucial for developing the rich flavor of honey balsamic grilled chicken. Honey not only adds sweetness but also helps to caramelize the surface of the chicken when grilled, creating those delightful golden-brown edges. Balsamic vinegar contributes a tangy depth, balancing the sweetness while also tenderizing the chicken. This combination allows the herbs and garlic to meld seamlessly, infusing each bite with a robust flavor profile that makes this dish stand out.

Olive oil in the marinade works as a binding agent, ensuring the chicken is coated evenly. It also helps in keeping the chicken moist during grilling. If you're looking for alternatives, try avocado oil for a lighter taste or sesame oil for a unique twist. No matter the choice, make sure to whisk the marinade until it’s glossy and well-combined, allowing all the flavors to marry together before hitting the chicken.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Chicken

When grilling chicken, achieving the right internal temperature is key. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the chicken should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for safety. An excellent visual cue is when the juices run clear, and the meat appears opaque. However, avoid overcooking, as this can lead to a dry texture. Allowing the chicken to rest for about five minutes after grilling is equally important, as this helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Preheating the grill to medium-high is essential for preventing sticking. Additionally, lightly oiling the grates can further ensure that the chicken releases easily. If you notice flare-ups, it may be beneficial to move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat slightly. Remember, each grill operates differently, so keep a careful eye on your chicken to avoid charring.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a mouthwatering honey balsamic grilled chicken!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start marinating the chicken.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect grilled chicken!

Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled.

Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired.

Enjoy your delicious honey balsamic grilled chicken with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to two hours. You can also add some chili flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to serve the honey balsamic grilled chicken for guests, marinating the chicken a few hours ahead can enhance the flavors even more. Ideally, you should marinate it for up to four hours. For longer storage, consider marinating overnight in the refrigerator, but avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the chicken can start to become mushy.

Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, keeping it covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) preserves moisture. Alternatively, you can slice and use the chicken in salads or wraps for quick meals throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Honey balsamic grilled chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes to complement the smoky flavors. Grilled corn on the cob also makes a delicious addition, adding a sweet crunch to the meal.

For a unique twist, try slicing the grilled chicken and adding it to a grain bowl filled with quinoa or farro, topped with feta cheese, diced cucumbers, and a drizzle of the remaining marinade. This brings variety to your meal while maintaining the bold flavors of the marinade.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless thighs or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

This grilled chicken pairs well with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or fluffy rice.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.