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Easy Balsamic Chicken Recipe

Easy Balsamic Chicken Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 21 reviews

This Easy Balsamic Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful mix of balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, herbs, and a touch of honey. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection, this dish is quick to prepare and is ideal for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade:

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought is fine)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 4 to 5 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon sweet paprika

Chicken:

  • 8 boneless and skinless chicken thighs (about 1 ½ pounds)
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze, tomato paste, honey, and lemon juice. Add minced garlic, fresh thyme, dried oregano, and sweet paprika to the bowl and whisk again until all ingredients are well combined.
  2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor and help create a nice crust during baking.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the mixing bowl with the marinade. Toss well to coat each piece thoroughly. Let it sit briefly at room temperature for a few minutes, or for enhanced flavor, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
  4. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and position an oven rack in the middle to ensure even cooking.
  5. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the marinated chicken thighs into a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, arranging them in a single layer. Bake on the center rack for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through, tender, and slightly caramelized.

Notes

  • For more intense flavor, marinate chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
  • You can substitute chicken thighs with breasts, but adjust cooking time as breasts cook faster and can dry out.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is properly cooked for safety and juiciness.
  • Balsamic glaze can be replaced with a reduction of balsamic vinegar and a little sugar if you prefer a homemade version.
  • Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving for added color and aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic chicken, easy chicken recipe, baked chicken thighs, healthy chicken dish, balsamic glaze chicken

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/easy-balsamic-chicken-recipe/