Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken
Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe from Italy
Introduction
Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet balsamic vinegar creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. This recipe is simple to make and is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
Grilled chicken has been a popular dish for centuries, with various cultures adding their own unique twists to the recipe. The addition of lemon and balsamic vinegar to grilled chicken is a modern take on this classic dish, adding a bright and zesty flavor profile that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) boneless chicken breast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced thin
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp italian parsley, chopped
- salt and pepper
How to prepare
- Preheat the gas grill.
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and season it generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Cook the chicken over a medium flame for about 10 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and place lemon slices over it.
- Cook the chicken over the lowest heat setting for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and sprinkle it with Italian parsley and balsamic vinegar.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breast for a different flavor and texture.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to preheat your grill before cooking the chicken to ensure even cooking.
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper before grilling to enhance the flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling the chicken over a medium flame ensures that it cooks evenly and develops a nice charred exterior.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any type of vinegar in place of balsamic vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro can be used in place of Italian parsley.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken in the lemon and balsamic mixture for up to 24 hours before grilling for even more flavor.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken with additional lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light and refreshing beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
180 per serving
Carbohydrates
2g per serving
Fats
7g per serving
Proteins
25g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and niacin.
Alergens
This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.
Summary
This Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a healthy and nutritious dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories, while being high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a tangy marinade and a juicy, tender texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken. It was many years ago, during a family gathering at my cousin's house. She had prepared this dish for all of us to enjoy, and from the moment I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.
My cousin, Clara, was always known for her culinary skills. She had a knack for combining flavors in ways that were unexpected yet delicious. As we all sat around the table, savoring the tender and flavorful chicken, I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe.
Clara chuckled and told me that she had learned how to make Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken from a dear friend of hers who had traveled to Italy. The recipe was a simple yet elegant one, combining the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar with the bright zest of fresh lemons.
I was determined to recreate this dish for my own family, so Clara graciously shared the recipe with me. She told me that the key to making it perfectly was to marinate the chicken for at least a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and infuse the meat with a delicious tanginess.
Armed with the recipe and a sense of determination, I set out to make Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken for the first time. I gathered all the ingredients - chicken breasts, lemons, balsamic vinegar, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs - and got to work.
I carefully mixed together the marinade, tasting and adjusting the flavors until they were just right. I then placed the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and poured the marinade over them, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly.
As the chicken marinated in the fridge, I could already smell the tantalizing aromas of lemon and balsamic wafting through the kitchen. I couldn't wait to grill the chicken and see how it turned out.
When it was finally time to cook the chicken, I preheated the grill and carefully placed each piece on the hot grates. The sizzle of the meat hitting the grill was music to my ears, and I knew that the end result would be nothing short of spectacular.
As the chicken cooked, I basted it with more of the marinade, adding layer upon layer of flavor to the already delicious dish. The scent of grilled meat and citrus filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.
When the chicken was finally cooked through and had those beautiful grill marks, I removed it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. The anticipation was almost unbearable as I sliced into the meat and saw the juicy, tender flesh inside.
As I took my first bite of the Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken that I had made myself, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me. The flavors were just as I remembered - tangy, sweet, and utterly delicious.
From that day on, Lemon Balsamic Grilled Chicken became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Each time I cooked it, I would think back to that first time I experienced the wonder of this dish and be grateful for the memories and the delicious flavors it brought into my life.
Categories
| Balsamic Vinegar Recipes | Chicken Breast Recipes | Gluten-free Recipes | Italian Parsley Recipes | Italian Recipes | Wheat Recipes | World Recipes |