This Balsamic Chicken with Asparagus recipe is a tasty and healthy dinner choice! Juicy chicken is cooked with fresh asparagus, all drizzled with a sweet balsamic sauce that sticks to everything perfectly.
I love how quickly this dish comes together—it’s perfect for busy nights! Plus, you get your protein and veggies all in one pan. Less mess means more time to relax! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets can work well. Or, for a more robust flavor, consider chicken thighs.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch. If it’s not in season, you can replace it with green beans or broccoli. Both will still give you that fresh touch!
Balsamic Vinegar: This is the star of the dish for flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with red wine vinegar, but add a little sugar to mimic the sweetness. Apple cider vinegar with a dash of honey is another tasty alternative.
Honey/Brown Sugar: I prefer honey for a balanced sweetness, but brown sugar works just as well. If you’re vegan, maple syrup can be a fantastic substitute.
Herbs: Fresh thyme offers great flavor, but if you’re out, dried thyme will do in a pinch. You can also use Italian seasoning for a different herb blend. Fresh parsley is a great garnish, but basil or oregano would also be nice!
How Do You Ensure Juicy Chicken?
Getting juicy chicken is all about marinating and proper cooking. Marinating allows the flavors to soak in, making the chicken more tender. Here’s how:
- Marinate in the balsamic mixture for at least 15-30 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Don’t skip the searing step! Browning locks in moisture, giving the chicken a nice crust.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
With these tips, you’ll serve up chicken that’s packed with flavor and super juicy!
How to Make Balsamic Chicken With Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Asparagus:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Balsamic Chicken with Asparagus will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. Including marinating time, you may want to set aside around 30-45 minutes total, depending on how long you can let the chicken soak up those amazing flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to roast the chicken and asparagus!
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, thyme, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix it until everything is combined and set aside.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour half of your prepared balsamic mixture over the chicken. Let it marinate for about 15-30 minutes—longer if you have time—for the best flavor.
4. Prepare the Asparagus:
While the chicken is marinating, give your asparagus a little love! Trim off the woody ends, then toss the asparagus with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will make them tasty and ready to cook.
5. Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (make sure to discard the leftover marinade), and place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes or until they’re golden brown. This makes them super flavorful!
6. Add the Asparagus:
Now, arrange the prepared asparagus around the chicken in the skillet. It’s all coming together!
7. Pour the Remaining Marinade:
Next, pour the remaining balsamic mixture over everything in the skillet—the chicken and asparagus. So good!
8. Roast in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and let it roast for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through (a safe internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the asparagus is tender.
9. Final Touch:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven, and spoon some of the delicious balsamic glaze from the skillet over the chicken and asparagus for an extra burst of flavor.
10. Garnish and Serve:
For a fancy final touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or your favorite herbs. Serve immediately, and enjoy your flavorful and healthy meal!
This Balsamic Chicken with Asparagus is not just easy to make, but it’s also a delightful combination of flavors that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, green beans or broccoli make excellent substitutes. Both will cook nicely alongside the chicken and absorb the tasty balsamic glaze!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Balsamic Chicken with Asparagus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve it for the best flavor and texture. You can also prepare the asparagus in advance, but it’s best to toss it with oil and season right before cooking.
