This fantastic grilled chicken with honey balsamic dressing recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a mix of sweet and tangy flavors. Marinated in a homemade pesto and grilled to perfection, the chicken is crowned with a glossy honey balsamic dressing. The addition of grilled vegetables provides a beautiful contrast of taste and texture, making it a complete, balanced meal.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are easily found in any kitchen, there are a few that might require a trip to the supermarket. The key to this recipe is the pesto, which infuses the chicken with a rich, herbaceous flavor. If you don't have homemade pesto, it can be found in the pasta aisle of most supermarkets. Additionally, raw honey is much thicker and richer than regular honey, and can usually be found in the natural foods section.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing
Chicken cutlets: These are thin slices of chicken that cook quickly and evenly on the grill.
Homemade pesto: This will be used to marinate the chicken, infusing it with a rich, herbaceous flavor.
Garlic: Adds a pungent kick to the pesto marinade.
Red pepper flakes: These add a bit of heat to the overall dish.
Lime: Its acidity helps tenderize the chicken and adds a zesty flavor.
Olive oil: It's used for grilling and making the honey balsamic dressing.
Balsamic vinegar: This gives the dressing its tangy sweetness.
Raw honey: It gives the dressing a rich, sweet flavor.
Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
Asparagus, zucchini, and red bell pepper: These vegetables will be grilled alongside the chicken, adding color, flavor, and nutrition to the dish.
One reader, Joline Rhoads says:
This grilled chicken with honey balsamic dressing recipe is a game-changer! The marinade infuses the chicken with so much flavor, and the balsamic dressing adds a delightful tangy sweetness. The veggies are the perfect complement. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and healthy meal!
Techniques Required
Marinating the chicken: Mix the chicken with pesto, garlic, red pepper flakes, lime juice, and salt. Allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results to enhance the flavors.
Preparing the balsamic dressing: Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and salt in a small bowl. Mix well to create a flavorful dressing for the grilled chicken.
Grilling the vegetables: Place the vegetables on a large grill tray, spray with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Cook the vegetables on the grill, turning constantly, until the edges are browned, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes.
Grilling the chicken: Cook the marinated chicken on the grill for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the chicken is cooked through. This will ensure a delicious smoky flavor and juicy texture.
Assembling the dish: Transfer the grilled chicken and vegetables to a platter, then pour the prepared balsamic dressing over everything to enhance the flavors and create a delightful presentation.
How To Make Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing
Enhance the dining experience by making savory food like this grilled chicken with vegetables and drizzled with sweet and tangy honey balsamic dressing.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½lbschicken cutlets,boneless skinless thin sliced
- 3tbsphomemade pesto
- 1clovegarlic,crushed
- ¼tspred pepper flakes,crushed
- ½fromjuice lime
- 2tbspolive oil
- 3tbspbalsamic vinegar
- 1tbspraw honey
- kosher salt
- 1lbasparagus,tough ends removed
- 2medium zucchini,sliced ¼-inch thick
- 1red bell pepper,seeded and sliced into strips
- live oil cooking spray
Instructions
-
Marinate chicken with pesto, garlic, red pepper flakes, lime juice, and ½ teaspoon of salt for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
-
Mix oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and ¼ teaspoon of salt in a small bowl.
-
Heat a grill over medium-high, be sure the grates are clean and well oiled to prevent sticking.
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Put veggies on 1 large grill tray, spray with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and cook, turning constantly until the edges are browned for about 6 to 8 minutes. Set aside on a dish.
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Cook the chicken about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and the chicken is cooked though, transfer to a platter, too with the veggies and pour the balsamic dressing over everything.
Nutrition
- Calories: 352.31kcal
- Fat: 22.18g
- Saturated Fat: 4.39g
- Trans Fat: 0.14g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10.25g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.98g
- Carbohydrates: 11.85g
- Fiber: 2.98g
- Sugar: 8.07g
- Protein: 26.84g
- Cholesterol: 73.24mg
- Sodium: 718.40mg
- Calcium: 62.16mg
- Potassium: 633.79mg
- Iron: 3.15mg
- Vitamin A: 94.15µg
- Vitamin C: 43.06mg
Technique Tip for Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing
When grilling chicken, it's important to ensure that the grill is preheated properly. A well-heated grill helps to sear the chicken quickly, locking in the juices and flavor. It also gives the chicken those beautiful grill marks. Remember to oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Lastly, avoid moving the chicken around too much as it cooks. This allows for even cooking and helps to achieve a nice, crispy exterior.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken and prepare the balsamic dressing the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cut veggies: Purchase pre-cut vegetables to save time on prep work, or consider using a mandoline for quick and uniform slicing.
Grill in batches: If your grill is not large enough to accommodate all the chicken and vegetables at once, grill them in batches to save time and ensure even cooking.
Invest in a grill pan: If grilling outdoors is not an option, invest in a grill pan for your stovetop to achieve those beautiful grill marks without firing up the outdoor grill.
Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating, use that time to prep the vegetables and make the balsamic dressing to streamline the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing Recipe
chicken cutlets - Substitute with turkey cutlets: Turkey cutlets are a great alternative to chicken cutlets, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
homemade pesto - Substitute with store-bought pesto: If you don't have homemade pesto, store-bought pesto can be a convenient and flavorful alternative.
balsamic vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar can provide a tangy acidity similar to balsamic vinegar in the dressing.
raw honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a sweet and rich flavor to the dressing, similar to raw honey.
asparagus - Substitute with green beans: Green beans can be used as a substitute for asparagus, providing a similar crisp texture and mild flavor.
zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash can be used as a substitute for zucchini, offering a similar texture and mild flavor.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell pepper can be a colorful and slightly sweeter alternative to red bell pepper in the recipe.
Presentation Tips for Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing
Elevate the grilled chicken: Arrange the grilled chicken cutlets on the plate in a visually appealing manner, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish. Consider layering the cutlets or arranging them in a circular pattern for an elegant presentation.
Drizzle with honey balsamic dressing: Use a squeeze bottle or a small spoon to delicately drizzle the honey balsamic dressing over the grilled chicken, ensuring an even distribution of flavors and a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with vibrant vegetables: Place the grilled asparagus, zucchini, and red bell pepper alongside the chicken, creating a colorful and visually striking arrangement. Consider using fresh herbs, such as parsley or microgreens, as a final garnish to add a pop of color.
Incorporate artistic elements: Consider incorporating artistic elements such as edible flowers or micro herbs to add a touch of sophistication to the dish. These elements can elevate the overall presentation and showcase attention to detail.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to breathe visually. This can create a sense of balance and elegance, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through.
Focus on precision and symmetry: Pay close attention to the placement of each component, ensuring precision and symmetry in the presentation. This meticulous approach demonstrates a high level of culinary expertise and attention to detail.
Consider the plate as a canvas: View the plate as a canvas and arrange the components with artistic flair. Embrace creativity and use the plate as a medium for expressing culinary artistry.
Create a harmonious composition: Strive to create a harmonious composition that balances colors, textures, and shapes. The presentation should evoke a sense of visual harmony and sophistication.
Emphasize the natural beauty of the dish: Allow the natural beauty of the grilled chicken and vibrant vegetables to take center stage. Keep the presentation simple yet refined to highlight the quality of the ingredients.
Personalize the plating: Infuse a touch of personal flair into the plating, reflecting your unique culinary style and creativity. Let the presentation showcase your individuality as a chef.
How To Store and Freeze Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing
- Let the grilled chicken and vegetables cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- To keep the chicken and veggies separate from the honey balsamic dressing, store the dressing in a separate container and only pour it over the dish when you're ready to serve.
- If you want to freeze the leftovers, place the cooled chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. Pour the honey balsamic dressing into a separate freezer-safe container.
- Squeeze out any excess air from the zip-lock bag or container to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and contents.
- Frozen grilled chicken and vegetables will keep well for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, thaw the chicken and veggies overnight in the refrigerator. Place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken and vegetables in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
- Thaw the honey balsamic dressing in the refrigerator overnight. Before serving, whisk the dressing thoroughly and pour it over the reheated chicken and veggies.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover grilled chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
If you have a microwave, you can reheat the chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help keep the chicken moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can quickly become dry and tough.
For a quick and easy method, you can reheat the grilled chicken in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through.
If you want to reheat the entire dish, including the vegetables and honey balsamic dressing, you can do so in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
For a tasty twist, slice the leftover grilled chicken and use it to top a salad. The cold chicken will pair perfectly with fresh greens, tomatoes, and your favorite salad dressing.
If you have a panini press or sandwich maker, you can use the leftover grilled chicken to make a delicious sandwich. Slice the chicken and place it between two slices of bread with your favorite toppings, such as cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Grill the sandwich until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Random Fact About Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing
Grilled chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides, such as salads, rice, or grilled vegetables. It's a great option for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This grilled chicken with honey balsamic dressing recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken cutlets, asparagus, zucchini, and red bell pepper, are reasonably priced and widely available. The addition of homemade pesto and balsamic vinegar may slightly increase the cost, but these ingredients can be used in various other recipes. Overall, this dish offers a good balance of nutrition and flavor at an approximate cost of $20 for a household of 4 people. Verdict: 9/10.
Is Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing Healthy?
This grilled chicken with honey balsamic dressing recipe is a healthy and delicious option for a summer meal. The recipe incorporates lean protein from the chicken cutlets, along with a variety of nutritious vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, and red bell pepper. The homemade pesto used in the marinade adds flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt or unhealthy fats. Additionally, the honey balsamic dressing provides a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors while using a minimal amount of honey, which helps to keep the added sugar content low.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Use organic, free-range chicken to ensure the highest quality protein source and to avoid any potential hormones or antibiotics.
- Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonal availability. Try adding cherry tomatoes, eggplant, or summer squash for added variety and nutrients.
- Replace the olive oil in the dressing with heart-healthy avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and is rich in monounsaturated fats.
- For those watching their sodium intake, reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe or opt for a low-sodium alternative like lemon juice or herbs.
- Serve the grilled chicken and vegetables over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for an extra boost of fiber and complex carbohydrates.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delicious Recipe
The combination of marinated grilled chicken with honey balsamic dressing and perfectly charred vegetables creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor, while the balsamic dressing adds a touch of sweetness and acidity. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, resulting in a delightful smoky flavor. This dish is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a delightful and satisfying meal for any occasion.
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Why trust this Grilled Chicken with Honey Balsamic Dressing Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delicious meal with grilled chicken marinated in flavorful homemade pesto, garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes. The honey balsamic dressing adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, enhancing the dish. The asparagus, zucchini, and red bell pepper are grilled to perfection, providing a colorful and nutritious accompaniment. With the use of high-quality ingredients such as balsamic vinegar and raw honey, this recipe ensures a delightful dining experience.
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