This Balsamic Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. Tender chicken cutlets are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a rich and flavorful balsamic reduction with mushrooms and a touch of cream. It’s a delicious and satisfying recipe that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of sweet balsamic vinegar, savory mushrooms, and tender chicken creates a well-balanced and satisfying dish.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is a breeze to prepare.
- Quick and Healthy: This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also a healthier option, as the chicken is pan-seared instead of fried.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Balsamic Chicken:
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, cut in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the mushrooms.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
- Cremini mushrooms: Sliced, for a savory and earthy flavor.
- Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
- Italian seasoning: Adds a blend of classic Italian herbs.
- Dry white wine or chicken broth: Used to deglaze the pan and create the sauce.
- Balsamic vinegar of Modena: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the sauce.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce.
- Heavy cream or whipping cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley: Optional, but recommended for garnish and a touch of freshness.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Balsamic Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets, which will cook more quickly and evenly. Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
Add the butter to the skillet and melt it over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their water and it evaporates, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Sauce
Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) and balsamic vinegar into the skillet. Let the mixture bubble and reduce by half, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 teaspoons of cold water until smooth. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to medium, add the heavy cream, and stir well. Simmer for a few minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet with the sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your chicken, mushrooms, balsamic vinegar, and cheese, the better the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook just until golden brown and cooked through.
- Adjust the sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick at any point, add a splash of wine, broth, or cream to thin it out.
How to Serve Balsamic Chicken
- Main Course: This Balsamic Chicken is a delicious and satisfying main course on its own.
- With Sides: Serve it with your favorite sides, such as pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
- Lunch or Brunch: Enjoy it for lunch or brunch with a side of crusty bread and a fresh salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I make this dish without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the white wine with an equal amount of chicken broth.
Can I add other ingredients to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, to the skillet along with the chicken.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the sauce while cooking.
There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Balsamic Chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
PrintBalsamic Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
Description
This Balsamic Chicken recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and elegant meal. Tender chicken cutlets are seared to perfection, then simmered in a rich balsamic reduction with mushrooms and a touch of cream.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear Chicken: Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on each side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook Mushrooms: Melt butter in the same skillet. Add mushrooms and cook until softened and browned.
- Make Sauce: Add garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Pour in white wine and balsamic vinegar. Simmer until the liquid is reduced by half.
- Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water until dissolved. Reduce heat to medium, add heavy cream and cornstarch slurry to the skillet, and stir until thickened.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, or until cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of wine, broth, or cream.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet with sauce
- Calories: 400kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg