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Balsamic Glazed Chicken Tenderloins

balsamic glazed chicken tenderloins - featured image

These balsamic glazed chicken tenderloins are a quick, easy, and flavor-packed dinner that comes together in just 25 minutes. The sticky, sweet-tangy glaze makes this dish a family favorite perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken tenderloins (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth or water)
  • Optional: Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
  • Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth until smooth.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken tenderloins in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove to a plate.
  4. Lower the heat to medium. Pour the mixed glaze into the empty skillet. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken and looks glossy.
  5. Return the seared chicken tenderloins to the skillet. Toss to coat each piece well. Simmer another 2-3 minutes, turning once, until chicken is cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F) and the glaze is sticky. If the glaze gets too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen.
  6. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil and a pinch of crushed red pepper if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use chicken tenderloins of even size for even cooking. Whisking the glaze ingredients before adding to the pan ensures a silky, well-emulsified sauce. If your balsamic vinegar is very tangy, add a bit more honey to balance. The glaze is also delicious drizzled over roasted vegetables or rice. Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking for juicier results. For a gluten-free version, double-check your Dijon mustard and broth labels.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, chicken tenderloins, quick dinner, skillet chicken, weeknight meal, easy chicken recipe, gluten-free, dairy-free, honey balsamic glaze