Transform ordinary chicken breast into a gourmet delight with this exquisite recipe. Infused with a garlic-herb butter and finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this grilled chicken is a symphony of flavors that will elevate your outdoor dining experience.
Ingredients:
For the Garlic-Herb Butter:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- Zest of one lemon
For the Balsamic Glaze:
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Garlic-Herb Butter
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the Chicken Breasts:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Make the Garlic-Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped thyme, and lemon zest. Mix well to create the garlic-herb butter.
- Butter the Chicken:
- Spread a generous portion of the garlic-herb butter over each chicken breast, ensuring an even coating.
Step 2: Grilling the Chicken
- Grill the Chicken:
- Place the buttered chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden brown with beautiful grill marks.
- Baste with Butter:
- During grilling, baste the chicken with any remaining garlic-herb butter to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Making the Balsamic Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer and Thicken:
- Allow the glaze to simmer for 8-10 minutes or until it has reduced by half and has a syrupy consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serving
- Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze:
- Once the chicken breasts are fully grilled, transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with additional chopped herbs and lemon slices. Serve immediately, allowing the residual heat to melt the garlic-herb butter into a rich, savory sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Grilled Vegetables:
- Serve alongside a medley of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
- Quinoa or Couscous:
- Pair with a side of quinoa or couscous for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
This Garlic-Herb Butter Grilled Chicken Breast with Balsamic Glaze is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together. The garlic-herb butter infuses the chicken with richness, while the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a special dinner, this grilled chicken recipe is a flavorful journey for your taste buds.