Grilled Chicken with Creamy Polenta and Balsamic Drizzle

Grilled Chicken with Creamy Polenta and a Balsamic Drizzle
 
In summer, I love any and everything on the grill and what better than a juicy, overnight marinated chicken served over a creamy polenta. To break up the richness of this dish, a drizzle of high quality Balsamic Vinegar of Modena makes this chicken entree shine. A quality balsamic vinegar is thick, syrup-like and naturally sweet and tart. Regular balsamic vinegar should not be used for this dish. If you do not have access to a BBQ use a cast iron grill pan. I love using my cast iron pan, especially through the winter months. It gives such a similar flavor to the BBQ.
 
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS                                                              PREP TIME: 10 MIN
COOK TIME: 1 HOUR
 
Ingredients:

Chicken Marinade
4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
2 Tablespoons of white wine vinegar or cider vinegar
1 Teaspoon of dried oregano
1 Teaspoon of dried rosemary
1 Teaspoon of dried thyme
2 Tablespoons of Dijon Mustard
1 Teaspoon of Garlic Powder
1 Teaspoon of Onion Powder
¼ Cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper
 
Polenta
5 Cups of Chicken Stock or Water
1 Cup of Cornmeal / Polenta
Salt
2 Tablespoons butter
½ Cup of grated Parmigiano Reggiano
Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
 
Directions:

1. Mix the marinade together in a container and add the chicken. Mix well, ensuring that the marinade has been evenly distributed among the chicken. Cover and let marinade in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Add the stock to a large pot and bring to a boil.
3. Pour the polenta into the stock and stir to combine.
4. Let the polenta boil for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Reduce heat to medium and continue to stir for an additional 35-40 minutes.
6. Add additional stock or water if the polenta is too thick.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and Parmigiano cheese.  
8. While the polenta is cooking, baste the grill or cast iron grill pan with olive oil and heat to medium-high.
9. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side and cooked through.
10. Remove chicken from heat and let stand.
11. Place a scoop of the polenta on each plate and serve immediately with chicken and drizzle with the balsamic vinegar.

 
Buon Appetito!