Get great flavor with just a few ingredients in this easy boneless chicken breast recipe. A tangy balsamic marinade boosts the tenderness of each bite, while garlic and parsley add a deep earthiness to the plate. It’s hard to beat the ease of preparation and tantalizing taste of this heart healthy balsamic chicken.
Are you looking for a heart healthy chicken recipe that’s so juicy and flavorful that you won’t feel like you’re depriving yourself of anything? This delicious chicken recipe fits the bill. The marinated chicken is loaded with flavor, while being good for you, too! Serve this chicken alongside your favorite vegetables and whole grains for a low-calorie and protein-rich dinner that is filling. You can even serve the chicken cold on top of a salad for a quick and easy lunch! And kids may like it too since the chicken is accented by such simple and satisfying flavors.
The highlight of this recipe is the delicious marinade. Low-fat chicken breasts are marinated in a vibrant mix of flavors, including balsamic vinegar, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil that make this anything but ordinary. It’s an easy dish to make but is far from bland or boring. Just make sure you marinate the chicken long enough for maximum flavor.
At only 185 calories per serving, this low-calorie chicken dish is also high protein, low fat and low cholesterol. It’s also a low sodium chicken recipe, which is good for your heart, but it doesn’t skimp on flavor. If you need this to be gluten free, check labels on the broth and vinegar.
Although most people think of chicken as a good option if they’re following a heart healthy diet, not all cuts or cooking methods are created equal. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is a great choice because they are very lean. Grilled, poached or baked chicken is heart healthy. However, some types of chicken are not quite as good for your heart, such as chicken wings and fried chicken.
Looking for chicken dinner recipes that go with a variety of side dishes? Balsamic chicken pairs well with almost any vegetable or grain. So whether you’re in the mood for chicken and rice, chicken and vegetables or you prefer to serve something else alongside your chicken, you can’t go wrong.
Recipe yields 4 servings
In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oil and black pepper. Place the chicken and the marinade in a resealable plastic bag. Seal the bag and toss to coat completely. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 1 day.
Preheat the oven to 400°. Lightly coat a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Arrange marinated chicken pieces in baking pan. Roast the chicken, basting with pan juices occasionally, for 25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter.
Scrape up the brown bits from the baking pan and transfer to a small saucepan. Whisk in the chicken broth and cook over medium-low heat. Drizzle the chicken broth mixture over the chicken. Sprinkle with parsley just before serving.
This chicken is a versatile addition to your lunch or dinner repertoire. But if you’re looking for more variety, you may also want to try some of our other heart healthy and gluten free chicken recipes. From grilled chicken to chicken salads, you’re sure to find dishes that will please your palate while being good for your health.