Balsamic B~B~Q Chicken
Juicy, flavorful chicken leg quarters marinated in balsamic vinaigrette and ketchup, then roasted to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large resealable plastic food storage bag, combine balsamic vinaigrette, ketchup, dried oregano, and pepper.
- Add chicken leg and thigh quarters to the bag, seal, and turn to coat with the marinade.
- Refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Transfer chicken to a roasting pan, skin side up.
- Discard the marinade.
- Roast until the meat is no longer pink near the bone, about 40 minutes, covering loosely with foil if the skin browns too quickly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken for up to 24 hours. If balsamic vinaigrette is unavailable, you can substitute with a mixture of balsamic vinegar and olive oil. To enhance the seasoning, add minced garlic or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the marinade. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious balsamic BBQ chicken with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Almond Rice Casserole for a hearty addition. For a more casual gathering, consider serving it alongside coleslaw and cornbread, making it an ideal centerpiece for summer barbecues.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover balsamic BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook, as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Balsamic B~B~Q Chicken contains roughly 127 calories, with 6g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (83% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. It also contributes 18g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of leg and thigh quarters?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Breasts typically cook faster, so check for doneness at around 25-30 minutes. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What if I don't have balsamic vinaigrette?
If you don’t have balsamic vinaigrette, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts balsamic vinegar and olive oil, along with some honey or mustard for sweetness. This will help mimic the flavor profile of the vinaigrette in the marinade.
Can I grill the chicken instead of roasting it?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally until it reaches the safe internal temperature. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).