Juicy Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe: A Whole30 & Paleo Delight

Introduction to Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Introducing the quintessential dish that marries simplicity with flavor—Balsamic Grilled Chicken. This culinary delight is a testament to the magic that happens when tender chicken meets the rich, tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar, all brought to life over the smoky heat of a grill. Not only does this dish boast a mouthwatering aroma that promises to awaken your senses, but it also offers a taste experience that’s both deeply satisfying and refreshingly light.

Perfect for those who love to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen, Balsamic Grilled Chicken is remarkably easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward marinating process, it’s a recipe that both novices and seasoned cooks can master with ease. Plus, its versatility means you can serve it up in countless ways, whether as the star of a cozy family dinner, sliced atop a vibrant salad, or as a protein-packed addition to your meal prep lineup.

But the appeal of Balsamic Grilled Chicken extends beyond its taste and ease. It’s a dish that fits seamlessly into a healthy lifestyle, offering a lean source of protein that’s low in fat but high in flavor. The balsamic marinade, with its blend of vinegar, herbs, and a hint of sweetness, not only infuses the chicken with robust flavor but also includes antioxidants that are good for your health.

So, whether you’re looking to impress at your next barbecue, add a delicious twist to your weekly meal plan, or simply enjoy a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, Balsamic Grilled Chicken is the way to go. Let’s dive into the joys of grilling and give your taste buds a treat they won’t forget.

Why Choose This Recipe?

Choosing to prepare balsamic grilled chicken comes with numerous benefits. Firstly, its simplicity and quick preparation time make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Within minutes, the marinade can be prepared and the chicken left to soak up all the flavors, requiring minimal hands-on time. Furthermore, the health benefits associated with the ingredients used are substantial. Balsamic vinegar, known for its antioxidants, pairs perfectly with lean chicken breast, offering a meal that is low in fat but high in protein. Adhering to Whole30 and paleo principles, this recipe eliminates processed foods, sugars, and dairy, focusing instead on whole, nutrient-rich ingredients. It’s a choice that supports both physical well-being and dietary compliance, proving that healthy eating can be delicious and straightforward.

Ingredients Overview

The balsamic grilled chicken recipe calls for a concise list of wholesome ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the final dish’s flavor profile and health benefits:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The lean protein base of the recipe, perfect for grilling.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that serves as the marinade’s base, adding moisture and richness.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Provides the signature tangy sweetness; opt for a Whole30 compliant variety to ensure the recipe adheres to dietary guidelines.
• Garlic Cloves: Adds depth and aroma to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the balsamic vinegar and adds complexity to the taste.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Each ingredient has been chosen not only for its contribution to the taste but also for its health benefits and compliance with Whole30 and paleo diets. This careful selection ensures that the recipe is not only nutritious and fulfilling but also aligns with dietary preferences aimed at improving health and well-being.

Preparing the Chicken

Marinade Preparation

Creating the perfect marinade for balsamic grilled chicken involves a blend of quality ingredients and a touch of culinary technique. Begin by selecting a Whole30 compliant balsamic vinegar, which should be free of added sugars and artificial ingredients, maintaining the purity and healthfulness of your dish. Here’s how to prepare the marinade:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil and 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar. Ensure the vinegar is Whole30 compliant to adhere to dietary restrictions.
2. Add Flavorings: Mince 4 garlic cloves and add them to the bowl, along with 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. The garlic and Italian seasoning offer depth and herbaceous notes to the marinade, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
3. Mix Well: Whisk all the ingredients until they’re well combined and the marinade is emulsified. This ensures each chicken piece will be evenly coated and flavored.
4. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large Ziploc bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes, though a few hours or overnight is ideal for deeper flavor penetration.

Tips for Marinating: If time is short, tenderize the chicken breasts with a meat mallet before marinating to help them absorb the flavors more quickly. For those not strictly following Whole30 or paleo diets, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for a hint of sweetness.

Grilling the Chicken

Grilling balsamic marinated chicken to perfection involves attention to timing and temperature:

1. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, around 375°F to 450°F. A properly heated grill ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves good grill marks.
2. Prepare for Grilling: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade to avoid cross-contamination.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill, leaving some space between each piece. Grill for 6-7 minutes on one side. Flip the chicken over, grilling for another 5-6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked yet still juicy.
4. Rest Before Serving: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it more tender and flavorful.

Tips for Perfect Grilling: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness without cutting into the meat, preserving its juiciness. For those seeking professional-looking grill marks, position the chicken at a 45-degree angle to the grill grates and rotate halfway through cooking on each side.

Serving Suggestions

The versatility of balsamic grilled chicken allows for a variety of Whole30 and paleo-friendly side dishes that complement its rich flavors:

• Vegetable Sides: Grilled asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh arugula salad with a lemon olive oil dressing make nutritious and flavorful accompaniments.
• Starchy Sides: For a more filling meal, serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice, keeping the meal within Whole30 and paleo guidelines.
• Presentation: Slice the chicken on a diagonal and fan it out on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for a touch of color and extra flavor.

These serving suggestions ensure a balanced and visually appealing meal that adheres to dietary preferences without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.

Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This balsamic grilled chicken recipe is the perfect combination of juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Made with a simple yet delicious balsamic marinade, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t sacrifice taste for nutrition. Suitable for Whole30 and paleo diets, it’s a versatile dish that will become a staple in your meal planning.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4 oz. each)
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (Whole30 compliant)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Tenderize the chicken breasts, then place them in a Ziploc bag with the marinade. Ensure each piece is coated well.
3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes or up to 3 hours.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for 8-10 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
5. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes under a foil tent before serving.

Notes

• If you don’t have a meat tenderizer, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to ensure full flavor absorption.
• For non-Whole30 or paleo versions, feel free to add a tablespoon of honey to the marinade for added sweetness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: per serving
• Calories: 148.5
• Sugar: 0.0g
• Sodium: 61.5mg
• Fat: 4.2g
• Saturated Fat: 0.9g
• Carbohydrates: 0.3g
• Fiber: 0.0g
• Protein: 25.7g
• Cholesterol: 70.2mg