Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs

Name: Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken thighs; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Meals

I absolutely love making Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs as they offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The rich glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a mouthwatering finish. This dish not only elevates a simple weeknight dinner but also impresses guests during gatherings. The best part? It comes together in just a few simple steps, making it both accessible and delicious. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:22:18.305Z

When I first experimented with Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs, I was amazed at how quickly they became a family favorite. The marinade, made with balsamic vinegar and honey, enhances the natural flavors of the chicken while adding a lovely sheen. I discovered that using bone-in thighs helps retain moisture, resulting in tender meat that practically falls off the bone.

One key tip I've learned is to sear the thighs skin-side down before adding them to the oven. This not only crisps the skin but also locks in delicious juices. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a truly delightful meal!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Tangy-sweet balsamic glaze that complements juicy chicken perfectly
Easy one-pan dish that minimizes cleanup after cooking
Versatile enough to pair with various sides for a complete meal

Balsamic Glaze Basics

The balsamic glaze is what brings this dish to life. Combining balsamic vinegar with honey not only adds sweetness but also helps to balance the acidity of the vinegar, making it more palatable. As the glaze cooks down, it'll thicken and become more syrupy, clinging to the chicken and enhancing each bite. If you have it on hand, a splash of soy sauce can add another layer of umami flavor without overpowering the dish.

When making the glaze, ensure you whisk it well to fully incorporate the honey and garlic with the balsamic vinegar. The garlic not only adds savory depth but also caramelizes during cooking, contributing an irresistible aroma and taste. This balance of flavors is essential for achieving that delightful contrast between sweet and savory that makes this recipe so appealing.

Perfecting the Sear

Searing the chicken thighs skin-side down is a crucial step in achieving crispy skin while locking in moisture. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. A good tip is to look for shimmering oil, which indicates it’s ready. As you place the thighs in the pan, avoid overcrowding; give them space to breathe, which helps develop a nice crust.

If you notice that the skin isn’t crisping up, it may be due to the heat being too low; try increasing it slightly. Conversely, if the skin begins to burn before the five-minute mark, reduce the heat to medium. The skin should be golden brown and crispy when you flip it over, really setting the stage for a delectable finish once baked.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

To elevate your dining experience, serve the Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy polenta. The rich glaze drizzling down complements these sides beautifully. For a lighter option, consider pairing with steamed green beans or a fresh arugula salad to introduce a peppery crunch that balances the sweetness of the glaze.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and they heat up wonderfully in the microwave or on the stove. If you want to freeze them, make sure to separate the chicken and the glaze to retain the best texture. When reheating, do so gently to prevent drying out the chicken, and consider adding a splash of water or broth to revitalize the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal.

Ingredients

4 bone-in chicken thighs
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your dish.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Sear the Thighs

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place them skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown.

Bake

Flip the chicken, pour the reserved marinade over the thighs, and transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle extra glaze from the pan over the chicken and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider adding sliced onions or bell peppers to the marinade.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on chicken breasts can be used instead; they’ll cook a bit faster, so adjust the baking time down to 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, for a lower-fat option, you may choose skinless chicken pieces, but be aware that they won't develop the same depth of flavor and crispy texture.

Honey can also be replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different twist. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar-free sweetener; just be mindful of the ratio since many sweeteners are much sweeter than honey.

Making Ahead

Preparing the marinade in advance is a fantastic time-saver. You can marinate the chicken thighs the night before or even freeze them in the marinade for up to three months. Just allow extra time for thawing and marinating the chicken after it’s been defrosted, which will ensure maximum flavor absorption.

If you plan on serving this dish for a meal prep, remember that the glaze can be made in bulk and stored in the fridge for a week. Simply reheat it on the stove while the chicken cooks to enhance its flavor once again right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work; just reduce the cooking time slightly to ensure they remain juicy.

→ What can I serve with Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs?

These thighs pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

→ Is it okay to prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade the night before and let the chicken soak in the flavors overnight for a more intense taste.

→ Can I use the marinade as a sauce?

Yes, but be sure to boil it on the stove for a few minutes to kill any bacteria from the raw chicken before serving.