Honey Balsamic Chicken
Honey balsamic chicken is the perfect weeknight dinner solution—fast, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. It brings together tender, seared chicken with a sticky, sweet-tangy glaze made from a simple honey garlic balsamic marinade. The result is a one-pan wonder that balances savory depth with caramelized edges and fresh herb aromatics.
This dish works just as well with chicken breasts as it does with thighs, and you can prepare it in an oven-safe skillet, air fryer, grill, or even on a sheet pan. It’s also incredibly flexible when it comes to pairings, making it an easy favorite for meal prep, dinner parties, or a last-minute homemade meal. What makes this recipe shine is how quickly the marinade comes together—just whisk and pour—using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
The flavor profile owes much of its complexity to a few key elements. Balsamic vinegar adds deep, tangy richness that reduces into a glossy glaze when simmered. Learn more about the unique aging and flavor notes of balsamic vinegar and why it works so well with sweet and savory ingredients. Honey brings a natural sweetness that thickens as it cooks, while garlic, thyme, and rosemary create a layered base of herbal and savory notes. The use of Dijon mustard adds both emulsification and a tangy bite that ties it all together.
When cooked in a hot olive oil-coated skillet, the chicken sears beautifully before being glazed and finished in the oven. If you’re building a collection of one-skillet chicken recipes or looking for new quick chicken dinners, this one delivers standout results with little effort.
What Makes This the Best Quick Balsamic Chicken Recipe
This honey balsamic chicken stands out because it offers incredible flavor in just 30 minutes with zero marinating time required. Unlike recipes that rely on hours of soaking, this dish develops depth fast by searing the chicken and reducing the glaze directly in the skillet. It’s a reliable, high-impact option that delivers on weeknights when time is short but flavor still matters.
The key lies in the balance of sweet, acidic, and savory elements. The balsamic vinegar reduces into a rich, glossy sauce that clings to each piece of chicken, creating a restaurant-quality glaze without fuss. Honey adds natural sweetness and a sticky texture, while garlic deepens the base flavor, enhancing the entire dish. The addition of Dijon mustard introduces sharpness and helps the sauce emulsify into a smooth coating. This blend of pantry staples creates a glaze that tastes like it simmered all day.
One of the best things about this dish is its flexibility. It works with both skinless chicken breasts and thighs and adapts well to multiple cooking methods. If you prefer grilling, this honey garlic chicken holds up well on a barbecue. Want to speed things up further? Toss it in the air fryer. You can even build out your dinner with pasta, salads, or oven baked chicken sides for a complete meal.
This isn’t just another balsamic chicken recipe—it’s a low-effort, high-reward solution that fits easily into your dinner rotation. Perfect for home cooks who want big flavor without the cleanup, it’s already become a favorite among honey garlic chicken lovers and busy families alike.
Ingredients Breakdown + Substitutions
This honey balsamic chicken recipe is built on just a handful of pantry ingredients that come together in a rich, tangy-sweet glaze. Each component plays a specific role—whether in flavor, texture, or cooking performance. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key ingredients and easy substitutions to adapt the dish to your taste or dietary needs.
Chicken
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Lean and protein-rich, chicken breasts are quick to cook and ideal for weeknight meals. Learn more about their versatility and nutrition at chicken as food.
Substitutions:-
Use boneless thighs for juicier, richer flavor.
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For faster cooking, slice the chicken into cutlets or use chicken tenders.
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Oil
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Used to sear the chicken and sauté the garlic, olive oil adds richness and helps build a golden crust. Find out more about its culinary value at olive oil.
Substitutions:-
Avocado oil or canola oil for a more neutral flavor.
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Butter for added depth (though it browns faster, so monitor heat).
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Aromatics & Herbs
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3 garlic cloves, minced
Garlic is essential for adding sharp, earthy depth to the glaze. Explore more about its flavor and use at garlic.
Substitutions:-
Use ½ teaspoon garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.
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Shallots or minced onion can also enhance the base flavor.
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½ teaspoon dried thyme + ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
These herbs bring woodsy, aromatic notes that round out the sweet and tangy glaze.
Substitutions:-
Use Italian seasoning or fresh herbs (triple the amount if fresh).
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Sage or oregano for a slightly different herbal profile.
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Glaze Ingredients
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¼ cup balsamic vinegar
This is the glaze’s backbone, providing acid and depth. As it reduces, it becomes sweet and syrupy. Learn more about its culinary use at balsamic vinegar.
Substitutions:-
Red wine vinegar with a touch of brown sugar.
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Apple cider vinegar for a fruitier acidity.
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2 tablespoons honey
Honey balances the acidity and helps the glaze become thick and sticky.
Substitutions:-
Maple syrup for an earthier sweetness.
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Brown sugar or agave nectar for vegan or budget-friendly options.
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Dijon adds tang, binds the sauce, and enhances savory flavor.
Learn more about its unique texture and flavor at Dijon mustard.
Substitutions:-
Yellow mustard for a milder flavor.
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Stone-ground mustard for added texture and boldness.
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Seasoning
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
These foundational seasonings elevate all other flavors in the dish.
Optional Add-Ins:-
Red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.
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Lemon zest for brightness.
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A splash of soy sauce for added umami.
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These ingredients create a deeply flavorful sauce in minutes. Whether you’re adding the dish to your favorite quick chicken dinners or looking to experiment with balsamic chicken recipes, this base is endlessly adaptable and reliable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking honey balsamic chicken is simple, fast, and only requires one skillet and a few everyday ingredients. Below is a step-by-step process to help you achieve juicy chicken with a sticky, flavorful glaze in under 30 minutes.
Preheat and Season
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper. This ensures a golden sear and boosts flavor throughout.
Sear the Chicken
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Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
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Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked through.
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Remove the chicken and set aside on a plate. This step builds flavor and ensures the final dish has a crisp exterior and tender center.
Build the Sauce
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 3 cloves minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon dried rosemary.
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Stir well and bring the mixture to a low simmer. The sauce will begin to thicken slightly as it reduces.
Return Chicken and Bake
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Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, coating each piece with sauce.
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Spoon additional sauce over the top so every piece is covered.
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Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
Rest and Serve
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Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices and keeps the meat moist.
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Spoon the thickened glaze over each piece just before plating.
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Serve with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, rice, or salad, for a complete, flavor-packed meal.
This method guarantees juicy, well-seasoned chicken with a deeply flavorful, glossy glaze—ideal for one-skillet chicken recipes and fuss-free dinners.
Flavor, Texture & Cooking Tips
This balsamic chicken hits every note—sweet, savory, tangy, and herbaceous. The texture is tender and juicy inside with a slightly crisp sear outside, all coated in a rich, caramelized glaze.
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Flavor: Balanced and bold from the balsamic vinegar, garlic, herbs, and honey.
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Texture: The chicken stays moist while the glaze clings tightly thanks to proper reduction and baking.
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Tip: Use a meat thermometer and remove from the oven at exactly 165°F to avoid overcooking.
For the best results, use a heavy oven-safe skillet and fresh garlic. Let the sauce simmer just enough to thicken without burning the sugars.
Kitchen Equipment Suggestions
You don’t need anything fancy to make this dish, but using the right tools makes prep and cooking easier:
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Oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel preferred)
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Meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken
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Garlic press for quick prep
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Silicone tongs for flipping chicken
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Whisk to blend the sauce quickly
Optional tools: air fryer or grill if using alternative cooking methods.
Serving Ideas and Side Pairings
This dish is flexible and works with a wide range of sides, making it perfect for quick dinners or full plated meals.
Great side dishes include:
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Roasted baby potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes
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Lemon couscous or wild rice
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Grilled or roasted vegetables (zucchini, asparagus, carrots)
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Arugula salad with goat cheese and cranberries
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Buttered pasta or orzo tossed in leftover sauce
You can also drizzle extra glaze on your sides for maximum flavor impact. For more inspiration, check out these oven baked chicken and quick chicken dinners meal ideas.
Honey Balsamic Chicken Variations
You can easily customize this recipe with simple changes for different flavor profiles or dietary needs:
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Maple Balsamic Chicken: Replace honey with maple syrup for an earthy sweetness.
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Spicy Balsamic Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
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Soy-Garlic Balsamic Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce for extra umami depth.
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Grilled Version: Marinate chicken in the glaze and grill instead of baking.
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Veggie-Loaded Skillet: Add cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach during baking.
These variations are perfect for those wanting to switch things up without making a completely new dish. Try them alongside other honey garlic chicken ideas or build your own balsamic chicken recipe collection.
How to Store, Reheat & Meal Prep
This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for lunches, leftovers, or weekly meal prep.
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Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce together in airtight bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
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Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the glaze.
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Meal Prep: Pair with quinoa, roasted veggies, or rice bowls in individual containers.
It’s a fantastic option for protein-packed meal prep or quick chicken dinners.
Balsamic Chicken vs Other Chicken Recipes
How does balsamic chicken compare to other popular dishes?
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Vs Teriyaki Chicken: Teriyaki is sweeter and soy-based, while balsamic is more tangy and herb-forward.
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Vs Lemon Herb Chicken: Lemon is sharper and lighter; balsamic is richer and deeper in flavor.
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Vs Barbecue Chicken: BBQ is smoky and bold; balsamic is more balanced and refined.
This recipe stands out for its glaze’s complexity and quick cook time, fitting easily into weeknight meal plans and one-skillet chicken rotations.
FAQs
Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless thighs are juicier and more forgiving. Just ensure they reach an internal temp of 165°F.
What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?
Try red wine vinegar with 1 teaspoon brown sugar or a mix of apple cider vinegar and honey for similar depth.
Can I grill honey balsamic chicken?
Yes. Marinate the chicken in the sauce, grill over medium heat, and brush with glaze as it cooks.
Will this work in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Cook chicken at 375°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway. Simmer the glaze separately and drizzle before serving.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook, cool, and store. Reheat gently with extra sauce or glaze before serving.
How do I make the glaze thicker?
Simmer it longer on the stovetop after baking. You can also add a cornstarch slurry if needed.
What internal temp should the chicken reach?
165°F (74°C) is the safe minimum temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
Honey Balsamic Chicken The Easy Skillet And Oven Recipe Guide
Description
This honey balsamic chicken is a flavorful skillet-and-oven dish featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in a sticky, tangy-sweet glaze made from balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and herbs. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or elegant yet easy dinners. Pair it with roasted vegetables, rice, or salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some sauce over each piece.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes before serving. Spoon more sauce over the chicken when plating.
Notes
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Use chicken thighs for added richness if preferred.
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For best results, sear in a hot skillet and finish in the oven.
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Fresh garlic adds the most depth—avoid garlic powder unless necessary.
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Dijon mustard helps emulsify the sauce and adds sharp flavor.
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Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
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Glaze can be simmered longer for a thicker finish or stored separately to drizzle later.
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Pairs well with pasta, greens, or seasonal veggies for a complete dinner.
