Savory Balsamic Herb Chicken
Indulge in the incredible flavor of this Savory Balsamic Herb Chicken. This dish features a vibrant marinade made from rich balsamic vinegar, smooth olive oil, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic herbs. As you infuse the herb mixture beneath the chicken skin, it melts into juicy perfection while roasting, creating a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Serve with your favorite sides for a wholesome meal that will impress family and friends alike. Simple yet elegant, this is a must-try recipe for any occasion.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
fryer chicken
1 ((3 1/2 lb))
balsamic vinegar
2 (tablespoons)
olive oil
2 (tablespoons)
lemon juice
1 (tablespoon)
dried oregano
1 (teaspoon)
dried basil
1 (teaspoon)
dried thyme
1/2 (teaspoon)
salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
black pepper
1/2 (teaspoon)
garlic
1 (clove, minced)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice until well combined.
3
Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic, mixing until the mixture is smooth and fragrant.
4
Using your fingers, gently slide underneath the skin of the chicken, creating pockets in the breast and thigh areas, being careful not to tear the skin.
5
Spoon the balsamic herb mixture into the pockets, spreading it evenly. Rub any remaining marinade over the outer skin of the chicken for added flavor.
6
Place the prepared chicken, breast side up, in a shallow roasting pan.
7
Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
8
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Balsamic Herb Chicken?
It is a roasted chicken dish featuring a marinade of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, and a blend of aromatic dried herbs.
What size chicken is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for one 3.5 lb fryer chicken.
What are the main ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The chicken should be roasted at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
How do I apply the marinade to the chicken?
You should gently slide your fingers under the skin to create pockets and spoon the herb mixture inside, spreading it evenly.
How long does the chicken need to roast?
The chicken typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to cook thoroughly.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
Why must the chicken rest after cooking?
Resting for 10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful when carved.
Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use the same marinade for chicken breasts or thighs, though you will need to adjust the roasting time accordingly.
Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried herbs?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs; generally, use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients including balsamic vinegar and herbs are naturally gluten-free.
Is Savory Balsamic Herb Chicken keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet.
What kind of roasting pan should I use?
A shallow roasting pan is recommended to ensure the chicken skin gets crispy.
How do I prevent the chicken skin from tearing?
Be very gentle when sliding your fingers between the meat and the skin to avoid making holes.
Can I marinate the chicken in advance?
While the recipe suggests applying the marinade before roasting, you can prepare the mixture ahead of time or marinate the chicken for a few hours for deeper flavor.
Can I substitute the balsamic vinegar?
Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used, though the flavor profile will change significantly.
Should I cover the chicken while it roasts?
The recipe recommends roasting it uncovered to achieve a golden-brown skin, but you can tent it with foil if it browns too quickly.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or steamed rice.
How should I store leftover chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, the cooked chicken can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in an oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit with a splash of water or broth to keep the meat from drying out.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes, a whole chicken can be cooked in an air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 45-60 minutes depending on the size.
What type of olive oil is best for this recipe?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor, but standard olive oil works well too.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is preferred for zestiness, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
What if I do not have dried thyme?
You can substitute it with more oregano or use dried rosemary for a different herbal note.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
A 3.5 lb chicken typically serves 4 to 6 people depending on portion sizes.
Can I add vegetables to the roasting pan?
Yes, adding root vegetables like carrots and potatoes to the pan allows them to cook in the chicken juices for extra flavor.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it uses lean protein and heart-healthy olive oil with no added sugars or heavy creams.
What should the juices look like when the chicken is done?
The juices should run clear when the thigh is pierced; if they are pink, the chicken needs more time.
Does the garlic need to be fresh?
Minced fresh garlic provides the best aromatic quality, but jarred minced garlic is a convenient alternative.