balsamic chicken marinade

Easy Recipe for Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken with Glaze

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As a busy mom, I’m always searching for tasty and easy dinner ideas. My family loves them. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this amazing slow cooker balsamic chicken recipe. It’s full of delicious flavors and is quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.

The secret to this recipe’s success is the balsamic marinade. It gives the chicken a sweet and tangy taste. Letting the chicken soak in these flavors for hours makes it tender and juicy. The result is a rich, glossy glaze that everyone will love.

Key Takeaways

  • This slow cooker balsamic chicken recipe is quick and easy to prepare, with a hands-off cooking method.
  • The balsamic marinade adds layers of flavor to the chicken, creating a delicious, tender, and juicy final dish.
  • The recipe serves 6-8 people, making it a great option for family dinners or meal prepping.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or frozen for up to 5 months.
  • The recipe can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as quinoa, brown rice, couscous, or crusty bread.

Introduction to Balsamic Chicken Marinade

Balsamic chicken marinade is a dish that combines the tangy taste of balsamic vinegar with tender chicken. The marinade, which includes balsamic vinegar, adds flavor and tenderizes the chicken. This makes the dish more enjoyable to eat.

What is Balsamic chicken marinade?

Balsamic chicken marinade is a tasty dish that uses chicken and a marinade with balsamic vinegar, herbs, and other ingredients. The vinegar’s sweetness and acidity perfectly complement the chicken. This results in a dish that is both satisfying and memorable.

Benefits of Using a Marinade

  • Enhanced Flavor: The marinade adds a mix of flavors to the chicken, making the dish taste better.
  • Improved Texture: The marinade’s acidity tenderizes the chicken, making it more tender and juicy.
  • Increased Moisture Retention: The marinade keeps the chicken’s juices in, preventing it from drying out while cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving)Value
Calories493 kcal
Carbohydrates8 g
Protein27 g
Fat37 g
Saturated Fat19 g
Sodium199 mg
Potassium771 mg
Fiber0.4 g
Sugar4 g

Using a balsamic vinegar marinade in your chicken recipe can make the dish more flavorful, tender, and moist. This creates a meal that is truly delightful and satisfying.

Ingredients for Balsamic Chicken Marinade

Making a tasty balsamic chicken marinade dish begins with the right marinade. A good marinade needs a mix of ingredients for flavor and tenderness. Let’s explore the must-haves and extras that make this marinade special.

Essential Ingredients List

  • Olive Oil – This healthy fat makes the chicken tender and spreads flavors evenly.
  • Balsamic Vinegar – The main attraction, balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy taste.
  • Chicken Broth – It keeps the chicken moist and adds savory flavors.
  • Italian Seasoning – A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary gives it an Italian twist.
  • Garlic Powder – Adds a lovely garlic aroma and taste.
  • Salt and Pepper – These simple seasonings balance the flavors.

Suggested Optional Ingredients

For more depth in the marinade, try these optional ingredients:

  • Honey – A bit of honey adds sweetness and helps the chicken caramelize.
  • Brown Sugar – Like honey, brown sugar adds depth and caramel flavor.
  • Fresh Herbs – Chopped rosemary, thyme, or oregano boost the Italian flavor.
  • Onions and Diced Tomatoes – They create a rich, flavorful sauce.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a vinegar chicken marinade, easy chicken marinade, or italian marinade. Your dish will be full of irresistible flavors.

Preparing the Balsamic Chicken Marinade

Making the perfect balsamic chicken marinade is key to great grilled chicken. Start by mixing 1 1/4 teaspoons of kosher salt, 3/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 2 tablespoons of honey in a bowl. Whisk until they’re well mixed.

Then, mix the wet parts of the marinade in another bowl. Use 1/3 cup of balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard. Whisk until it’s smooth and dressing-like.

  1. Pour the vinegar mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re fully covered.
  2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours, up to 24 hours, to let the flavors soak in.

For the best taste, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours in the fridge. But don’t marinate it for more than 24 hours. The acid in the vinegar can damage the meat if it’s left too long.

Tips for Marinating Chicken Properly

  • Use a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish to marinate the chicken, making sure the pieces are fully submerged.
  • Flip the chicken occasionally during the marinating process to ensure even distribution of the flavors.
  • Discard any leftover marinade used for soaking the raw chicken. It is not safe to reuse.
  • For added convenience, the marinade can be prepared up to 3 months in advance and frozen for future use.

By following these simple steps, you’ll make a healthy chicken marinade that turns grilled chicken into a delicious dish. The mix of balsamic vinegar, herbs, and honey will give your grilled chicken a rich flavor that will excite your taste buds.

Cooking with a Slow Cooker

Preparing a slow cooker recipe is a great way to enjoy a tasty easy chicken dinner on a busy weeknight. Slow cookers are great because they cook without much effort. They also make tough meats tender and add lots of flavor.

Advantages of Using a Slow Cooker

One big plus of using a slow cooker for this balsamic chicken recipe is the low and slow cooking. This keeps the chicken moist and tender. It also lets the chicken soak up all the flavors of the marinade and sauce.

Recommended Slow Cooker Settings

For this recipe, cook the slow cooker balsamic chicken on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2 ½-3 hours. Cooking it on low for a longer time lets the flavors blend perfectly. This makes the dish very satisfying and aromatic.

Chicken thighs are the best choice for this slow cooker recipe. They make the dish flavorful and juicy. The recipe uses balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, and brown sugar. These ingredients create a rich and savory sauce that’s amazing when slow-cooked.

“The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken remains moist and absorbs the flavors of the marinade and sauce.”

If you’re looking for an easy chicken dinner or a convenient weeknight meal, try this slow cooker balsamic chicken recipe. It’s easy to make and tastes great. It’s perfect for any occasion because it’s so tender and flavorful.

How to Adjust Marinade Flavor

Customizing the balsamic vinegar marinade for chicken is easy. You can make it sweeter or spicier to match your taste. Just a few tweaks can change the flavor to what you like.

Modifying the Sweetness

The marinade’s sweetness comes from honey or brown sugar. If it’s too sweet, cut down on these ingredients. For more sweetness, add more honey or brown sugar.

Adding Heat with Spices

Want a bit of heat? Add spices like red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount, like 1/4 teaspoon. Then, add more until it’s just right for you.

Try different herbs and spices to make your balsamic chicken unique. Rosemary adds a nice aroma, while fire-roasted diced tomatoes add flavor.

Adjusting the marinade is about finding the right mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy. Experiment with ingredients until you get your perfect balsamic vinegar marinade for slow-cooked chicken.

Balsamic Chicken Cooking Time

Preparing Balsamic chicken marinade in a slow cooker is easy and delicious. It needs little effort but tastes amazing. You can cook it for 4-6 hours on low or 2½-3 hours on high.

How to Tell When It’s Done

To check if your chicken breast marinade is cooked, use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be tender and easy to pierce with a fork.

Remember, cooking times can change based on chicken size and your slow cooker’s settings. Always use a thermometer to make sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving this easy chicken dinner.

slow cooker recipe

“The slow cooker does all the work, making this balsamic chicken recipe a breeze to prepare. Just set it and forget it!”

Serving Suggestions for Balsamic Chicken

The balsamic chicken is a hit with its rich flavors. It goes well with many side dishes for a great weeknight meal. You can make it healthier or quicker, depending on what you like.

Perfect Side Dishes

Try the chicken with fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or couscous. These help soak up the sauce. For a healthy touch, add steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. A tangy salad also pairs well, balancing the chicken’s richness.

Ideal Accompaniments for Glaze

The balsamic glaze is amazing with crusty bread. It’s perfect for getting every bit of sauce. For a richer meal, try it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cauliflower.

Whichever sides you pick, the weeknight meals, healthy chicken marinade, and easy chicken dinner combo will impress. This dish is flexible, making it ideal for any meal.

Storage Tips for Leftover Chicken

Proper storage and reheating of leftovers are crucial for enjoying your balsamic chicken. Follow these simple tips to keep your chicken fresh and flavorful.

Best Practices for Storing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to 5 months. Include plenty of balsamic marinade to prevent drying.

How to Reheat Properly

To reheat your chicken breast marinade, thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight. Warm it over medium-low heat or reheat in the microwave until hot. This keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Storage MethodMaximum Duration
Refrigerator4-5 days
Freezer5 months

By following these tips, you can enjoy your easy chicken dinner and weeknight meals for longer. With a little care, your balsamic chicken leftovers will stay flavorful and tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about your balsamic chicken marinade? We’ve got answers to help you get the best results.

Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?

Yes, you can! The recipe is for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but other cuts work too. Try boneless, skinless chicken thighs or bone-in pieces. Bone-in chicken might need an extra hour to cook through.

What to Do If It’s Too Salty?

Too salty? No worries! Add fresh lemon juice or plain yogurt to balance it out. Or, serve with something bland like steamed rice or roasted veggies.

IngredientAmount
Balsamic Vinegar1/2 cup
Olive Oil1/4 cup
Honey2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Dried Oregano1 teaspoon
Salt1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper1/4 teaspoon

For a great balsamic chicken marinade, balance is key. A few tweaks can make it just right for you.

chicken marinade ingredients

Nutritional Information

This balsamic chicken marinade is not just tasty but also healthy. Each serving has about 355-405 calories. It’s a good mix of protein (44-60g) and carbs (8-18g), making it a great choice for dinner.

Pair it with veggies and whole grains for a balanced meal. The marinade is low in fat (7-9g per serving). It also has potassium and vitamin C, which are good for your health.

Calories per Serving

A serving of this marinade has 355-405 calories. This makes it easy to fit into a healthy diet.

Balancing Your Meal with Nutrients

NutrientAmount per Serving% Daily Value
Protein44-60g88-120%
Carbohydrates8-18g3-6%
Fat7-9g9-12%
Saturated Fat2-3g10-15%
Cholesterol63mg21%
Sodium250mg11%
Potassium208mg6%
Vitamin A16IU0%
Vitamin C0mg0%

This marinade is a nutritious choice for dinner. Add veggies and whole grains for a complete meal. It’s a healthy and satisfying option.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Home cooks love the slow cooker balsamic chicken with glaze recipe. They say it tastes amazing and is easy to make. The slow cooker makes it convenient.

Positive Experiences with the Recipe

People love how tender and juicy the chicken is. It soaks up the balsamic marinade perfectly. The slow cooking makes the flavors blend together, creating a delicious meal.

“This balsamic chicken is a game-changer! The meat is so moist and flavorful, and the glaze is the perfect finishing touch. I’ll be making this on repeat.”

Many also like how versatile the dish is. It goes well with many sides, like roasted veggies or mashed potatoes.

Common Suggestions for Improvement

Some users have great ideas to make the recipe even better. They suggest trying different herbs or spices to add to the balsamic flavor. Others recommend adding veggies to the slow cooker for a complete meal.

  • Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Incorporate diced onions, carrots, or potatoes to the slow cooker for a heartier, all-in-one dish.

The slow cooker balsamic chicken recipe has won many hearts. It’s easy to make and always tastes great. With a few tweaks, it can become a favorite in any home.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Balsamic Chicken

This balsamic chicken marinade recipe has been around since 2007, but it’s still a hit today. Kalyn Denny updated it in 2023. It’s a tasty and easy meal for any day of the week.

Final Thoughts on the Recipe

This recipe is great for those watching their carbs or following Keto and South Beach Diets. It’s packed with flavor and has nutritional info for 8 servings. Plus, it includes links to buy the right tools and seasonings.

Encouragement to Try the Marinade

Give the balsamic chicken marinade a try and customize it to your taste. You can tweak the sweetness or spice. It goes well with many sides, so try different ones to find your favorite. Enjoy this slow cooker balsamic chicken and make it a staple in your home.

FAQ

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use other cuts like boneless skinless chicken thighs or bone-in pieces. Bone-in cuts need about an hour more to cook.

What to do if the dish is too salty?

If it’s too salty, add lemon juice or plain yogurt to balance it. Serving it with a bland side dish can also help.

What is the typical cooking duration for this recipe?

This slow cooker balsamic chicken recipe cooks in 4-6 hours on low or 2 ½-3 hours on high. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature, which should be 165°F (74°C).

How can I modify the sweetness of the marinade?

To change the marinade’s sweetness, adjust the honey or brown sugar. For a spicier taste, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.

What are the nutritional details of this dish?

Each serving of this balsamic chicken has about 355-405 calories. It has a good mix of protein (44-60g) and carbs (8-18g). It’s low in fat (7-9g per serving) and rich in potassium and vitamin C.

What are the customer reviews and feedback on this recipe?

Many people love this recipe for its simplicity and taste. They enjoy the chicken’s tender texture and the dish’s versatility. Some ideas for improvement include trying different herbs or adding vegetables for a full meal.

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