Juicy chicken, caramelized onions, and a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze all come together over fluffy rice for the perfect weeknight dinner. Simple, satisfying, and bursting with bold flavor!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
For the Rice:
- 1 cup white or brown rice
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Rice:
- In a saucepan, bring chicken broth or water to a boil.
- Add rice, butter/oil, and salt. Cover and reduce to a simmer.
- Cook for 15–18 minutes (white rice) or 35–40 minutes (brown rice) until fluffy. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
2️⃣ Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Balsamic Glaze:
- In the same skillet, add onions and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4️⃣ Combine:
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and coat with the balsamic glaze.
- Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until everything is well-coated and warmed through.
5️⃣ Serve:
- Spoon the rice onto plates and top with the balsamic chicken and onions.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Quick Info:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: ~450 kcal
Tips & Variations:
- Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for a veggie boost.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.
- Want extra glaze? Double the balsamic and honey, and let it reduce longer.
- Swap chicken for tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Chef’s Note:
This Balsamic Chicken + Rice Dinner is quick, cozy, and packed with tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. It’s a family-favorite that comes together in one skillet — perfect for busy nights or meal prep!
