Lucky's Quickie Chickie Recipe

Name: Lucky's Quickie Chickie
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons olive oil; 6 ounces chicken tenderloin strips; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.125 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 1.5 teaspoons honey; 1.5 teaspoons balsamic vinegar, or more to taste

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Chicken with Basil and Balsamic Glaze

Ingredients:

2 teaspoons olive oil
6 ounces chicken tenderloin strips
teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoons balsamic vinegar, or more to taste

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the hot oil.
Cook and stir the chicken for 3 to 5 minutes, until it is no longer pink in the center.
Stir in the fresh basil, honey, and balsamic vinegar, cooking for an additional minute.

Recipe Tip: You can use any cut of chicken with this method; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 157
Total Fat: 7g (9% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 1g (6% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 49mg (16% Daily Value)
Sodium: 334mg (15% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 5g (2% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Total Sugars: 5g
Protein: 18g (36% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium: 16mg (1% Daily Value)
Iron: 1mg (4% Daily Value)
Potassium: 161mg (3% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Lucky's Quickie Chickie is a delightful chicken dish that combines the tang of balsamic vinegar with the sweetness of honey, creating a balance of flavors in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish requires minimal ingredients and time, making it a quick yet satisfying meal. But where does this recipe come from, and how does it stand out among other chicken dishes? Let's explore the story, regional influences, and interesting facts surrounding this simple but tasty dish.

History of the Dish

Although the specific origins of Lucky's Quickie Chickie are not clearly documented, the dish appears to be a modern fusion of traditional American and Mediterranean flavors. The use of balsamic vinegar and honey suggests an influence from Italian cuisine, where balsamic vinegar is a staple ingredient, especially in sauces and dressings. As for the quick cooking technique, this recipe reflects the trend of simplifying meals for the modern cook who values both speed and flavor. It likely evolved as a home-cooks way to make an impressive dish with limited time and ingredients.

Regional Variations

The concept of pairing honey with vinegar in cooking is found in many global cuisines, but Lucky's Quickie Chickie may be most at home in the United States, particularly in regions that embrace quick weeknight meals. The use of fresh basil is characteristic of Mediterranean cooking, particularly Italian and Greek dishes. However, the balance between sweet and tangy in this dish is widely enjoyed in various parts of the world, and many adaptations exist. In some versions, ingredients like garlic or additional herbs are used to enhance the sauce, showing regional preferences for more robust flavors.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While there are many recipes for glazed chicken or balsamic chicken, Lucky's Quickie Chickie stands out due to its simplicity and the speed with which it can be prepared. Many balsamic chicken recipes involve marinating the chicken for hours, but this version requires just a few minutes of cooking. Additionally, the combination of honey and balsamic vinegar in such a quick cooking time creates a unique sauce that is both sweet and savory, offering a contrast to other balsamic chicken dishes that often feature a more concentrated vinegar flavor. Its use of fresh basil adds a layer of freshness that is not always present in similar recipes.

Where It Is Commonly Served

This dish is commonly served as a weeknight dinner, ideal for families or anyone in need of a quick and flavorful meal. While it is perfect on its own, it is often paired with simple sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. The balance of flavors in Lucky's Quickie Chickie also makes it a great option for entertaining, as it can be prepared in a short amount of time and looks as impressive as it tastes. Its typically found in casual American kitchens, but it can easily be adapted to fit the style of more formal Mediterranean meals with slight modifications.

Fun Facts About Lucky's Quickie Chickie

Although the dish is a modern creation, it takes inspiration from centuries-old Mediterranean recipes that combine honey, vinegar, and fresh herbs.
The recipe's simplicity has made it a favorite among those who want to prepare an enjoyable meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar is not only delicious but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional glazes and sauces, with fewer artificial additives.
Luckys Quickie Chickie has become a go-to meal for busy weeknights and is even recommended for meal prepping, as it reheats well and still maintains its flavor.

In conclusion, Luckys Quickie Chickie is a prime example of how modern cooking has evolved to cater to the needs of time-conscious individuals without sacrificing flavor. Whether you're cooking for a family or a dinner party, this dish offers a delicious blend of sweetness, tang, and freshness in just 20 minutes. Give it a try next time you're in a rush, and you'll see why it has become a staple in many kitchens!

FAQ about Lucky's Quickie Chickie Recipe

Yes. You can cook the chicken and sauce up to one day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, warm it gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a sealed container. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Yes. Let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Yes. Use about one-third the amount of dried basil compared to fresh, since dried herbs are more concentrated. Approximately 2 teaspoons of dried basil will replace 2 tablespoons of fresh.

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, quinoa, or steamed vegetables such as green beans, broccoli, or asparagus. The slightly sweet and tangy sauce also complements mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Just adjust the cooking time: about 6–8 minutes per side for breasts and 8–10 minutes per side for thighs, depending on thickness.

To thicken the sauce, simmer it for a few extra minutes after adding honey and balsamic vinegar, or mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the pan until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

Yes. You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness, or omit it entirely for a more savory flavor. If skipping the honey, you may want to balance the acidity with a teaspoon of brown sugar.

A nonstick skillet works best for this quick recipe since it minimizes sticking and allows the sauce to coat the chicken evenly. However, a stainless steel or cast iron pan can also be used if lightly oiled.

Yes. This recipe scales easily. Simply multiply all ingredients by the desired amount. Cook the chicken in batches to ensure it browns properly and the pan doesn’t become overcrowded.

Avoid overcooking. Chicken tenderloins cook quickly, usually within 3–5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken as soon as it’s no longer pink inside and coat it with the sauce to keep it moist.

Yes. Lucky’s Quickie Chickie reheats well and keeps its flavor, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Divide it into portions with rice or vegetables for quick weekday lunches.

Comments

naples34102

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

There are quite a few recipes like this circulating the web but this one was less complicated, involving less steps. Man, was it good. I seasoned the chicken with some garlic salt as well as the salt and pepper and cooked it in a combination of olive oil and butter for a little extra flavor. One and a half teaspoons each of honey and balsamic vinegar seemed a little skimpy, so I increased that to one tablespoon each and it was just the right amount. I combined the two before I added it to the chicken and it blended in easily. I try to limit my carbs, so I served this with fresh green beans and sliced tomatoes but frankly, this would have been even better with some hot cooked rice.

Sue Lochner Caesar

01/13/2017 01:53:40 AM

Absolutely delicious and so flavorful! I added minced garlic, 1/4 cup white wine and reduced to half after cooking chicken. Then added 2 TBSP chicken stock, along with 3 TBSP Balsamic and honey(I mixed together before adding to pan). Simmered for a few minutes until thickened a bit. Added chicken back into pan and gently stirred to coat chicken with sauce. Sprinkled with basil. I served it over rice cooked in chicken stock and green beans. Definitely double the honey and balsamic vinegar foe enough sauce. Thanks so much for sharing this wonderful recipe Lucky!!

Maggie Jones

07/19/2017 03:25:41 AM

This recipe was so simple to make and the flavor was terrific. I did remove the chicken once it was cooked, added a tablespoon of butter to the pan. Then I added the sauce, simmered until thick and added the chicken back in to coat. Even with this step, the time it took to make this dish was fast. I will definitely make again.

Reen

06/18/2017 01:47:19 AM

I usually don't have much luck with recipes involving balsamic vinegar. I have never found a recipe that I liked until now. I did make a couple of minor changes. Sauteed a couple of cloves of chopped garlic with the chicken. Made lots of sauce. 3 tablespoons each of the balsamic and honey. The sauce tasted quite strongly of the balsamic so I took another reviewer's tip and added a couple of tablespoons of chicken broth and that made it perfect. Will definitely be going into my dinner rotation!

Michelle S11

02/24/2025 05:34:57 PM

I made this recipe twice. The first time I made as directed and everyone thought it was ok, but not a lot of flavor. The second time I sautéed a chopped onion, red pepper and green pepper and put it aside. Made the chicken seasoned with salt, pepper and garlic. Kept adding honey and balsamic vinegar until it was quite saucy and flavorful. I added a slurry of water and cornstarch to thicken the liquid and then added the onion and pepper. Served it with white rice and everyone liked it. It’s good, but you can do a lot with it to add some more flavor.

Shanlee

03/04/2020 11:47:52 PM

Double or triple the sauce and marinate the chicken in it for 15 minutes before cooking. A very flavorful weeknight meal. I don't always have basil on hand so I have tried it with and without and it is great either way. Perfect served with rice pilaf or pesto orzo and roasted veggies!

DREGINEK

12/23/2021 03:26:08 AM

The only thing accurate about this recipe is the amount of oil and basil. But If you read the ingredient list and get the gist Take into account previous reviewers The flavor and simplicity of this recipe is amazing!! We are running crazy prepping for the holidays and this recipe was a satisfying and quick lifesaver for dinner! Made using 1 lb of tenderloins, added some minced garlic for the first min of cooking. Total cook time was about 8 minutes. Sauce; TBLS balsamic, TBLS honey and basil - as stated. Added and cooked a minute. Served with bruschetta/French bread (also amazing!)! Will absolutely make again with these adjustments! So glad I found! Thank you!!

Senegoid

07/21/2023 02:26:58 AM

I used 2 bonless skinless chicken breasts I cut in half. I listened to the comments and used a lot more basil, vinegar, and honey to make sure there was enough sauce. I also added a little minced galic because I love garlic. I also used onion powder in addition to salt and pepper to season the chicken. It came out pretty good and it was super fast. I'm not a huge fan of sweet balsamic sauces, but it was so fast and easy I was happy with the results.

Lizzie

05/27/2024 01:46:43 AM

This was quick, easy and made in one pan. I took other’s advice and tripled the sauce, seasoned the chicken with more than salt & pepper & added a clove of garlic when I added the sauce ingredients. Everyone loved it & made me promise to make it often!

Mary Cioffi

09/12/2018 01:57:11 PM

Super fast and easy, I added little garlic to the oil in the pan prior to cooking the chicken. Tasted fantastic and looks lovely with the caramelization of the balsamic with the honey in the pan providing a brownish gold marinade and intensifying the appearance of the browned chicken.

FunFrog3970

06/26/2023 11:31:45 PM

I doctored it up a bit…added some minced garlic to the oil for browning chicken. Quadrupled the amounts of vinegar, honey and fresh basil. Served over steamed broccoli and rice. Then when we had it in our dishes, I decided it needed a splash of soy sauce and Sirracha. After that it had a clear direction! I will make it again and add some peanuts and water chestnuts as well!

Alex

07/26/2025 08:49:37 PM

Easy peasy, and delicious

Deborah Diem

06/13/2025 10:27:27 PM

My son and I thoroughly enjoyed this. And SO easy! Thanks.

Debra Harris

05/10/2025 11:28:46 PM

SO GOOD, I’m speechless 🤤

Jeffrey Evans

05/06/2025 01:15:25 AM

Tried it once — already addicted.

TidyDosa9433

03/20/2025 11:03:49 PM

Quick, easy, great flavor. Used extra ingredients for the sauce and served over rice.

mnpnj

03/20/2025 09:06:10 PM

Made as written but did use half butter, half olive oil and did use garlic salt instead of salt as suggested. Very tasty, very easy. My daughter loved it. Served it over rice.

FunkySalt3627

02/17/2025 06:56:24 PM

If using dried basil use only 1 tablespoon. I used 12 ozs of chicken, 6 per person. 3 oz per person is too small per person.

Steven Green

02/04/2025 12:13:05 AM

Quick, easy, and super satisfying.

RoseSnap9962

01/29/2025 04:27:09 PM

Easy and tasty!

Cook Time: 15 minutes