5 Minute Balsamic Chicken Marinade

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this versatile 5 Minute Balsamic Chicken Marinade is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or sautéing your chicken, this glaze is the perfect way to take your dish to the next level!

Get ready to transform your chicken game with this 5-minute balsamic chicken glaze! This marinade is packed with sweet, tangy and savory flavors that complement each other perfectly. If you want dinner on the table fast, this recipe will save you time and energy.

The balsamic vinegar brings a rich and slightly sweet acidity, while the soy sauce (or coconut aminos) add an umami depth of flavor. The brown sugar provides a touch of sweetness that balances out the acidity, and the Dijon mustard and dried thyme add a subtle kick of spice and earthiness. Together, these ingredients create a burst of flavor that will make your chicken taste like it came straight out of a fancy restaurant kitchen!

As an experienced home chef, I can tell you that this is one of the easiest ways to level up your chicken recipes. With just a few simple ingredients and five minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch of this and have your chicken marinating in no time.

Whether you’re grilling, baking, or sautéing your chicken, this easy marinade is what you need. Use it for a variety of things like steak or tofu, and even roasted vegetables. It’s a game-changer that will make you feel like a culinary rockstar!

And if you love this marinade, try out our Chili Lime Chicken Marinade or Balsamic Steak Marinade to mix things up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• This 5-minute balsamic chicken glaze is the ultimate way to elevate your chicken recipes with its complex flavor profile that works well together.
• It’s incredibly easy to make with just a handful of simple ingredients, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you want something delicious without all the fuss.
• With its versatility, you can use it to marinate steak, tofu, or even roasted vegetables, making it a go-to recipe for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Balsamic Vinegar – The star ingredient of this recipe, bringing a sweet and tangy flavor to the marinade that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Soy Sauce (or coconut aminos) – Adds umami flavor to the marinade and help balance out the acidity of the balsamic vinegar.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a bright and fresh acidity to the marinade that complements the other flavors and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Brown Sugar – Provides a touch of sweetness that helps balance out the acidity of the balsamic vinegar and soy sauce. It also helps create a caramelization on the surface of the chicken when cooked.
• Dijon Mustard – Gives a subtle kick of spice and tanginess to the marinade that complements the other flavors and helps emulsify the ingredients.
• Seasonings – Kosher salt helps bring out the natural flavors of the chicken, while pepper adds a bit of spice. Garlic powder and dried thyme add a savory and earthy flavor that complements the sweetness and tanginess of the other ingredients.

How To Make Balsamic Chicken Marinade In 5 Minutes

Measure ingredients: Measure out the ingredients, then add them to a medium-sized mixing bowl.

Whisk until smooth: Use a whisk to combine the ingredients until everything is well combined and emulsified.

Store and chill: Use immediately or add the marinade to an airtight container or a jar with the lid. Each batch will make roughly 3/4 cups of marinade.

Tips For Marinating Chicken

• For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 48 hours.
• If you’re grilling the chicken, brush the excess marinade off before placing it on the grill.
• Make a double batch of the marinade and store it in the fridge or freezer for future use. It’s a great way to save time and add flavor to your meals without any extra effort.

Variations

• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. This will add a bit of heat that complements the sweetness and tanginess of the other ingredients.
• If you prefer a sweeter marinade, increase the amount of brown sugar or use honey.
• For a Mediterranean twist, add a teaspoon of dried oregano and a teaspoon of dried basil to the marinade.
• Swap the chicken for tofu or vegetables like portobello mushrooms or eggplant.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: Store any leftover marinade in an airtight jar or container in the fridge for up to 7-10 days. This will allow the flavors to blend together even more, making the marinade even more flavorful.

Freezing: This marinade freezes exceptionally well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. To freeze, transfer the marinade to a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion, and label it with the date. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and whisk before using.

FAQ

What does marinating chicken with vinegar do?

Marinating chicken with vinegar helps to tenderize the meat and add flavor. It is especially helpful when marinating tougher cuts of chicken, such as drumsticks or thighs.

What else can I use the marinade for?

This marinade can be used for grilled, roasted, or pan-seared chicken, but it’s also great for grilling vegetables or tofu. The only change you’ll need to make is increasing the amount of olive oil so that there’s enough to fully coat the other ingredients.

Print