Chicken or Steak with Balsamic BBQ Sauce

A Weeknight Winner: Chicken or Steak with Balsamic BBQ Sauce

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious, satisfying meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, work deadlines, and endless to-do lists, I crave recipes that are both quick and impressive. This balsamic BBQ chicken or steak recipe is my go-to for those evenings when I want something flavorful and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. I discovered this recipe from Chef Giada De Laurentiis, and adapted it to suit my busy schedule. The deep, rich flavors of the balsamic BBQ sauce are incredible, and the method is surprisingly simple.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility. Whether you're craving tender, juicy chicken or flavorful steak, this recipe delivers. The balsamic BBQ sauce is the star of the show, a tangy, sweet, and smoky glaze that elevates both the chicken and steak to a whole new level. I often make a double batch of the sauce, as it’s equally delicious on grilled vegetables, ribs, or even as a marinade for pork chops. The beauty of this dish is its adaptability. One night, I might grill the chicken and steak on the barbeque for a summery feel. On a busy weeknight, I simply bake the chicken in the oven, saving precious time without compromising on flavor. It’s a real lifesaver when I’m pressed for time.

Beyond the Dinner Table: This recipe is more than just a weeknight meal; it's a conversation starter. The rich, complex flavors are guaranteed to impress guests, whether it's a casual get-together or a more formal dinner party. The leftovers are equally delightful the next day, perfect for a quick lunch or a packed school lunch. The versatility extends beyond the protein choice as well; you could easily substitute the chicken or steak with pork chops, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. This recipe is a testament to how a simple meal can be elevated with bold flavors and clever techniques.

Tips for Success:

• Marinating Magic: While not strictly necessary, marinating the chicken or steak in a portion of the balsamic BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) will infuse the meat with incredible flavor.
• Don't Overcrowd the Grill: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken or steak pieces on the grill to allow for even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
• Internal Temperature Matters: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
• Rest is Key: Allowing the meat to rest after grilling or baking is crucial for retaining its juices and ensuring a tender, flavorful final product.

This balsamic BBQ chicken or steak recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and convenience. It’s a testament to the fact that delicious, home-cooked meals are achievable, even on the busiest of days. So, next time you find yourself wondering what to make for dinner, reach for this recipe. It’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite.

Step-by-step

• For the BBQ sauce: Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan and stir until all the ingredients are incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Simmer over medium heat until reduced by 1/3, about 15 to 20 minutes.
• For the chicken or steak: Place a grill pan over medium heat or preheat a gas or charcoal grill. Season the meat with salt and pepper. Lightly coat with some of the BBQ sauce using a pastry brush. Place the meat on the grill. Place the remaining BBQ sauce, still in the small saucepan, over low heat or on the edge of a gas or charcoal grill and allow to gently simmer while the meat cooks.
• Cook the chicken about 8 minutes per side. Cook the steaks starting at about 4 minutes per side until a meat thermometer reads the desired temperature, 120 degrees F for medium rare, 135 degrees F for medium (about 6 minutes per side), 155 degrees F for well done (about 9 minutes per side). Continually brush the meat with BBQ sauce every few minutes. Remove the meat from the grill and let rest for at least 5 minutes. Serve with the heated BBQ sauce alongside.
• Alternately, the chicken can be baked in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place the chicken skin side up in a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the baking dish from the oven and spoon the BBQ sauce all over the top of the chicken. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.