Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes & Roasted Tomatoes is the perfect dish for anyone looking to bring comfort food to the dinner table while still impressing guests with a sophisticated flavor profile. Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken that has soaked up the delightful tang of balsamic vinegar, perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness from maple syrup. Nestled alongside creamy, herbed mashed potatoes, this dish offers a warm hug of flavors that is hard to resist. The roasted tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and freshness, tying the entire meal together beautifully. Whether it’s a family weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave your guests asking for seconds.

What makes this recipe appealing is not just its incredible taste but also its simplicity. The preparation requires minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the cooking process without feeling overwhelmed. The grilled chicken requires a straightforward marination process, and you’ll be amazed at how easily you can achieve a gourmet-inspired meal with just a few fresh ingredients. Plus, it is not only delicious; it’s also packed with protein and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Get ready to make this Balsamic Grilled Chicken one of your new favorite dinner recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Flavor-packed dish: Each bite of this dish is bursting with rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that tantalize the palate.
Easy to prepare: Assembling this meal involves simple steps that anyone can follow, making it great for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Complete meal: With protein, carbs, and vegetables, this dish covers all the bases, ensuring you have a satisfying dinner in one plate.
Perfect for meal prep: The ingredients hold up well, making it an excellent option for lunch the next day or for making ahead of time.
Versatile options: This dish is easily adaptable with different herbs or proteins, allowing you to make it your own each time.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen workspace efficiently. Start by gathering all the necessary tools: a cutting board, sharp knives for easy chopping, a large bowl for mixing the marinade, a roasting pan for your tomatoes, and a sturdy pot for boiling potatoes. Having everything organized will ensure a smooth cooking experience!

As for the equipment, you’ll need a grill or grill pan to cook the chicken—this will give you those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor that elevates your dish. Additionally, a potato masher will make it easy to achieve that creamy texture for your mashed potatoes. Preheat your grill as you begin marinating the chicken and prepping the sides to maximize efficiency.

Ingredients

1½ lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs
⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 lbs yellow potatoes, peeled and chunked
½ cup warm whole milk or half-and-half
5 tablespoons butter
⅓ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
2 garlic cloves, cooked and mashed
1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or chives)
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small shallot, thinly sliced
1 garlic clove, lightly crushed
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh herbs, chopped for serving
Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Flaky salt and black pepper for seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by making the marinade for the chicken. In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup (or brown sugar), whole-grain mustard, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and minced garlic until well combined. Then, add the chicken pieces to the bowl, making sure they are well coated in the marinade. For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This step is crucial as the longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it becomes.

Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take your cherry or grape tomatoes and place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and add the sliced shallot, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the tomatoes are evenly coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast them in the preheated oven for about 18–20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft and caramelized. This roasting process allows the tomatoes to develop a sweet, concentrated flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and potatoes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the peeled and chunked yellow potatoes. Cook them until fork-tender, which should take about 20 minutes. Once they are done, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. This allows the steam to escape and ensures they won’t become too watery when mashing them.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

To your cooked potatoes, add the butter, warm milk, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mashed garlic, salt, and black pepper. Using a potato masher, mash everything together until creamy and smooth. Be careful not to over-mash, as this can lead to gummy potatoes. Stir in the chopped fresh herbs, adjusting the seasoning if needed. Taste as you go to ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavors!

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Once your potatoes are ready and the tomatoes have been roasted, it’s time to grill the chicken. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook each side for about 4–6 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Once done, take them off the heat and let the chicken rest for about 8–10 minutes before slicing. Resting allows juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken is succulent and tender.

Step 6: Assemble

Now that everything is cooked, it’s time to assemble your plates. Start by spooning a generous portion of herbed mashed potatoes onto each plate. Place slices of grilled chicken on top, then add a serving of roasted tomatoes alongside. Drizzle everything with balsamic glaze, and finish off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, flaky salt, and freshly cracked black pepper for an extra touch. Enjoy!

Variations

Protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Vegetables: Add other roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for more color and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with different herb blends like Cajun or curry powder for an exciting twist on flavor.

Cooking Notes

Allow the chicken to marinate longer for a deeper flavor experience.
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a fresh green salad for a light starter.
A nice crusty bread or garlic bread can be a delightful addition to soak up the delicious flavors.

Tips

For added flavor, try grilling the chicken with fresh herbs or lemon slices.
Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marination time)
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes (plus marination time)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Protein: 40g
Sodium: Approximately 800mg

FAQs

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 4 hours; however, for best results, try to marinate overnight to enhance the flavor.

Can I use other types of vinegar?

While balsamic vinegar is recommended for its unique flavor, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if necessary.

What can I substitute for potatoes?

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, consider using cauliflower, which you can steam and blend into a creamy mash.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare both the mashed potatoes and the roasted tomatoes beforehand. Simply reheat the potatoes and tomatoes before serving, and grill the chicken fresh for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Herbed Mashed Potatoes & Roasted Tomatoes not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a wholesome and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and sweet, caramelized tomatoes creates an experience that is hard to replicate. We hope you enjoy trying this recipe and make it your own by exploring different variations! Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below, and let us know how you made this dish uniquely yours. Happy cooking!