Indulge in the rich and tangy flavors of our Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs. This dish combines succulent chicken thighs with a glossy balsamic reduction, enhanced by garlic and herbs, creating a perfect harmony of sweet and savory notes. Originating from Italian culinary traditions, this recipe is a favorite for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, it's a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and impressive meal.
- 8 Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (Trimmed of excess fat)
- 1/2 Cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons honey
- 3 Cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 Teaspoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 1/2 Teaspoon salt
- 1/4 Teaspoon black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon wedges (For serving)
- 1 Preparing the Chicken Thighs
Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Let them rest at room temperature while you prepare the glaze.
- 2 Searing the Chicken
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- 3 Making the Balsamic Glaze
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey, stirring to combine. Add the chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- 4 Glazing and Baking the Chicken
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, ensuring they are well-coated with the balsamic glaze. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 200°C. Bake for 20 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and the chicken to cook through.
- 5 Finishing Touches
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Variations:
- Herb Variations: Substitute rosemary with thyme or oregano for a different herbal profile.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of honey based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
Tip:
For extra crispy skin, ensure the chicken thighs are thoroughly dried before seasoning and searing.