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Flavorful Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Recipe with Fresh Herbs Perfect for Summer

blackberry balsamic grilled chicken - featured image

A simple and delicious grilled chicken recipe featuring a fresh blackberry balsamic glaze with herbs, perfect for summer dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries (about 150 grams)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh mint, chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice
  • Optional garnish: fresh herbs or extra blackberries

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Blackberry Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of blackberries, 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 8-10 minutes until blackberries break down and sauce thickens slightly. Strain through a fine mesh sieve if a smooth glaze is preferred. Set aside to cool.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled blackberry balsamic glaze, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil, 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon rosemary, 1 teaspoon mint (if using), 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring even coating. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Brush grates or pan with oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature. Avoid flipping too often.
  6. Baste and Glaze: In the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush chicken with leftover blackberry balsamic glaze to build a glossy finish. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  7. Rest and Serve: Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra blackberries if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

If glaze is too thick after cooling, gently warm and stir in a splash of water to loosen. If too thin, simmer longer but watch closely to avoid burning. Let chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer for best results. Marinate between 30 minutes and 2 hours to avoid meat texture breakdown. Fresh herbs add brightness; dried herbs can be used in half quantity if fresh are unavailable.

Nutrition

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