Chicken Breasts with Balsamic Vinegar and Garlic Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• cup balsamic vinegar
• cup chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon butter

Directions

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Rinse the mushrooms under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Season the flour with salt and pepper in a shallow dish.

Step 2: Dredge the chicken breasts in the seasoned flour, making sure they are evenly coated. This will help create a light crust on the chicken while cooking.

Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 3 minutes on one side, or until golden brown. Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 2 minutes on the other side.

Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring quickly to avoid burning it. Scatter the sliced mushrooms over the chicken breasts. Continue to cook, stirring the mushrooms occasionally and shaking the skillet to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: After about 3 minutes, pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth. Add the bay leaf and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Stir the mixture gently, then cover the skillet tightly with a lid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, turning the chicken breasts occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 6: Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a warm serving platter and cover it loosely with foil. Set aside.

Step 7: Continue simmering the sauce in the skillet uncovered over medium-high heat for about 7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 8: Add the tablespoon of butter to the sauce, swirling it in until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Discard the bay leaf.

Step 9: Pour the mushroom sauce over the chicken breasts and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	268
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	77mg
Sodium	286mg
Total Carbohydrate	10g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	4g
Protein	31g
Vitamin C	5mg
Calcium	32mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	608mg

Servings Per Recipe: 4

This delicious recipe for chicken breasts with balsamic vinegar and garlic combines savory mushrooms, tender chicken, and an aromatic balsamic sauce. It's an easy-to-prepare dish that has become a favorite for many home cooks.

History of the Dish

The use of balsamic vinegar in cooking dates back to ancient Italy, where it was prized for its rich, complex flavor. Balsamic vinegar, especially from the Modena region, is known for its aged and sweet qualities, which blend wonderfully with savory dishes. The pairing of chicken with balsamic vinegar and garlic likely evolved from traditional Italian cooking, where vinegar is used to brighten and balance rich meats like poultry. While variations of this dish exist, the use of garlic and mushrooms adds a deeper umami that elevates the simple combination of chicken and vinegar into something spectacular.

Regional Features

This recipe draws heavily from Italian cuisine, particularly the Emilia-Romagna region, where balsamic vinegar originated. Balsamic vinegar's distinct flavor profile a mix of tangy and sweet notes is a staple in many Italian recipes, both savory and sweet. The inclusion of garlic and mushrooms is also typical in Italian cooking, where these ingredients are often used to create rich, aromatic sauces that complement the natural flavors of meat.

Difference from Similar Dishes

What sets this dish apart from other chicken recipes is the unique combination of balsamic vinegar and garlic. Many chicken dishes use lemon or white wine as a base for sauces, but the balsamic vinegar brings a deep, slightly sweet tanginess that you wont find in those dishes. Additionally, the use of fresh mushrooms in the sauce adds earthiness and texture, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish. Compared to other balsamic chicken recipes, this one is particularly savory, thanks to the garlic and chicken broth that balance the sharpness of the vinegar.

Where Its Typically Served

Chicken breasts with balsamic vinegar and garlic is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. Its often found on restaurant menus that feature Italian or Mediterranean cuisine. At home, it is a popular choice for both casual family dinners and more elegant meals for guests. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and can also be served with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. The sauce is rich enough to be poured over side dishes, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Interesting Facts

• Balsamic vinegar was originally used as a medicinal product in ancient Italy before it became a key ingredient in cooking.
• The tradition of aging balsamic vinegar began in the Modena region of Italy, where it was produced exclusively for noble families for centuries.
• The mushrooms used in this recipe, when sauted in the vinegar sauce, add a rich umami flavor that enhances the taste of the chicken, making this dish feel hearty and satisfying.
• Many people add a touch of honey to the balsamic vinegar in this recipe to balance the acidity, making it a little sweeter and smoother.
• This dish is an excellent option for meal prepping, as the flavors only get better after a day or two in the fridge!

Conclusion

Chicken breasts with balsamic vinegar and garlic is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings a little taste of Italy to your kitchen. With its rich balsamic sauce, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms, it offers a balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

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