Balsamic glazed chicken is one of those dinners that sounds fancy but secretly saves my sanity on busy nights. The first time I made it, I was sure the kids would turn up their noses at anything with vinegar in the name, but surprise! They licked their plates clean. That sticky, sweet tangy glaze just works its magic every single time.
Also, I love how this recipe lets me toss everything in the crockpot and walk away—no babysitting a hot stove or wrestling with splattering pans. Dinner feels less like a chore and more like a little gift to myself. If you’re craving something that feels special but fits right into a hectic weeknight, this balsamic glazed chicken is about to be your new best friend.
Personal Anecdote
So, picture this: It’s Tuesday, I’m late getting home, and the hangry meter in my house is rising fast. I dump the chicken, balsamic mixture, and cherry tomatoes into the crockpot with a prayer and a promise to the dinner gods. Then, hours later, the kitchen smells like I’ve been working all day (when really, I’ve been hiding from laundry). The glaze is glossy, the chicken practically falls apart, and the kids are circling like tiny sharks. It’s honestly a miracle meal—no judgment if you sneak a taste before serving.
Why This Recipe is Special
First, this balsamic glazed chicken brings serious flavor with barely any effort. That sweet, garlicky glaze clings to every bite, making it perfect for a comforting family dinner. Plus, you can serve it up with whatever you have—rice, roasted veggies, or even a pile of mashed potatoes. If you love easy chicken dinners, you might also want to try the Best Easy Mississippi Chicken Recipe For A Cozy Family Dinner, which is another hands-off winner. However, when I want something with a bit more zing, this balsamic glazed chicken always wins.
Finally, for anyone who likes a twist on classic chicken, you’d probably enjoy the Best Easy Chicken Piccata Meatballs Family Approved Dinner Recipe too. But truly, this recipe is special because it manages to impress even on the most chaotic evenings. It’s dinner made easy, with just enough wow-factor to make everyone think you tried harder than you did.
Ingredients breakdown
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1/2 cup |
| Honey | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup |
| Fresh basil, for garnish |
Utensils and substitutions
If you’re like me, you probably already have most of these utensils at home: a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a trusty crockpot (or slow cooker). Honestly, the crockpot is a lifesaver for busy days—just set it and forget it! If you don’t have one, you can use a Dutch oven in the oven set to low heat, though the timing may vary a bit.
Sometimes I swap out cherry tomatoes for grape tomatoes or even diced Roma tomatoes if that’s what’s in my fridge. Fresh basil is lovely, but a sprinkle of dried basil will work in a pinch. For a little extra flavor, toss in a few sprigs of fresh thyme instead of dried. And if you’re aiming for a different protein, boneless turkey breast works well here too.
For anyone interested in healthy swaps or curious about balanced meals, the MyPlate nutrition guidelines are a handy resource. Also, if you’re on the hunt for more simple chicken ideas, check out my Best Easy Chicken Burrito Bowl For A Healthy Family Dinner and the super comforting Best Cozy Merry Me Chicken Pasta For A Hearty Family Dinner. There’s always something new simmering away in my kitchen!
Step-by-step method for a balsamic glazed chicken
Step 1
First, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Step 2
Next, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into your crockpot or slow cooker. Pour the balsamic mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated well. Then, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes on top.
Step 3
Finally, cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should become tender and fully cooked. Serve the balsamic glazed chicken garnished with fresh basil, alongside rice or roasted vegetables for a comforting dinner.
Tips and tricks to make this Dinner recipe shine
To keep your balsamic glazed chicken moist and flavorful, avoid lifting the lid during cooking. Also, adding cherry tomatoes not only adds a pop of color but enhances the natural sweetness of the dish. If you want to try a different chicken recipe, check out this Best Creamy Ranch Chicken Dinner Easy Kid Friendly Family Approved for a creamy twist. For another easy crockpot option, the Easy Dump Go Marry Me Chicken Best 5 Star Dinner Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Both are crowd-pleasers and make weeknight dinners stress-free and delicious.
What to serve with this Dinner recipe
Balsamic glazed chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. First, try serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a light and nutritious dinner. Also, roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto complement the tangy glaze beautifully. For more delicious chicken ideas, check out our Best Easy Mediterranean Chicken Piccata For A Healthy Dinner Tonight recipe. Next, if you want a quick lunch option, our Best Easy Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza Quick Healthy Lunch Idea is a great choice.
How to store and reheat
To keep your balsamic glazed chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the glaze’s texture and flavor. Alternatively, use a microwave but cover the dish to avoid drying out. Avoid reheating multiple times to keep the chicken tender and tasty.
FAQ
Can I make balsamic glazed chicken in a crockpot?
Yes, you can prepare this recipe in a crockpot by placing the chicken and glaze ingredients inside and cooking on low for 4-6 hours. This method results in tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort.
Is balsamic glazed chicken healthy?
This dish is relatively healthy since it uses simple ingredients like balsamic vinegar and herbs without added sugars or unhealthy fats. Pairing it with veggies boosts its nutritional value.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover balsamic glazed chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within two months for the best taste and texture.
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, a mix of red wine vinegar and a little honey or maple syrup can mimic the sweet-tart flavor well.
How long does it take to cook?
The chicken usually takes about 20-25 minutes to cook on the stove, depending on thickness. Always ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Print
Balsamic Glazed Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low-Carb
Description
A tender and flavorful slow-cooked chicken dish featuring a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze with garlic and thyme, topped with fresh cherry tomatoes and basil.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper, whisking until well blended.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the balsamic mixture evenly over them.
3. Top the chicken with the halved cherry tomatoes.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Serve the chicken garnished with fresh basil, accompanied by rice or roasted vegetables.
Notes
Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier meat.
Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Thank you for spending some cozy kitchen time with me, chatting about this tasty balsamic glazed chicken recipe. I hope you find it as simple and satisfying as I do. Don’t forget to try it with different sides from our Best Easy Mediterranean Chicken Piccata or the Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza for a full meal experience. Remember, cooking is about enjoying the process and sharing good food with loved ones. For more inspiration and mouthwatering ideas, please follow us on Pinterest. Happy cooking and see you next time!