Description
A flavorful and healthy Balsamic Chicken Breast recipe served with sautéed fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, topped with optional Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make baked dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner that combines tangy balsamic vinegar with aromatic garlic and oregano.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Topping
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and coat them thoroughly with the balsamic mixture to infuse flavor.
- Initial Bake: Bake the chicken breasts in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to begin cooking through.
- Sauté Vegetables: While the chicken bakes, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes for 3 to 4 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the tomatoes have softened.
- Top Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and evenly distribute the sautéed spinach and tomatoes on top of each breast. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the vegetables if using.
- Finish Baking: Return the baking dish to the oven and continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is thoroughly cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 3 to 5 minutes after baking to retain its juices before serving.
Notes
- Using a meat thermometer is recommended to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- You can substitute fresh oregano for dried if available, adjusting quantity to taste.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Balsamic Chicken Breast, baked chicken, spinach, cherry tomatoes, healthy dinner, easy chicken recipe, low fat chicken
