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, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I always find that a great combination of flavors can elevate a simple meal into something extraordinary, and that's exactly what this Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe does. The rich, tangy glaze paired with tender, juicy thighs creates an unforgettable dish that I love to serve to family and friends. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, as it comes together quickly and uses ingredients I usually have on hand. Trust me, once you try these chicken thighs, they will become a staple in your household!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:34:18.916Z

When I first tried balsamic glaze, I was amazed at how such a simple ingredient could transform the flavor of chicken thighs. The sweetness of the balsamic vinegar, combined with a touch of honey and garlic, creates a glaze that's both tangy and subtly sweet. Over time, I've mastered this recipe to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor while keeping the chicken incredibly juicy.

One of my favorite tips is to marinate the chicken in the glaze for an hour before cooking; it adds an extra depth of flavor that really elevates the dish. You can also easily adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or vinegar to suit your taste. Trust me, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Quick cooking method for busy weeknights
Juicy chicken thighs that stay tender and moist
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides

Marinade Mastery

The marinade is the heart of this Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe. Balsamic vinegar brings a rich depth of flavor and acidity, enhancing the chicken's natural juices. The honey not only balances the tang but also promotes caramelization during cooking, creating that beautiful, glossy finish. When whisking the marinade, ensure it is well blended; this combination will clarify the role of each ingredient, adding complexity without overpowering the dish.

Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes is crucial, but allowing it to sit for a full two hours can significantly deepen the flavor. When marinating, a resealable bag ensures every inch of the chicken is coated and absorbs the flavors. If you find yourself short on time, even a 30-minute marinade can yield delicious results, but remember that longer marination times work wonders in tenderizing and flavoring the chicken.

Cooking to Perfection

Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) is essential for achieving crispy skin on the chicken thighs. The high temperature allows the fat under the skin to render out, producing a golden-brown, crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside. To check for doneness, using an instant-read thermometer is a must; simply insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone, until it reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

During the last few minutes of baking, brushing the reserved marinade on the chicken not only adds flavor but also intensifies the glaze. This step is best timed to coincide with the moment the chicken begins to crisp on the edges; you'll notice the transition from a raw marinade to a beautifully glossy coating that enhances presentation and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Once your chicken has finished resting, garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the rich balsamic glaze. This dish pairs beautifully with sides such as roasted vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the chicken. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over creamy mashed potatoes or with quinoa, which will soak up the delicious drippings.

Leftovers, if you have any, can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating gently in the oven at low heat is preferable to maintain the texture of the chicken. Alternatively, you can shred the leftovers for salads or wraps, transforming them into a new meal. If you're preparing for a crowd, this recipe can easily be scaled up—just ensure your baking sheet can accommodate the extra chicken without crowding, which helps maintain that crispy skin.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make flavorful balsamic glazed chicken thighs:

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to prepare these ingredients for a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious balsamic glazed chicken thighs:

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside half of the marinade for later use.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade and place skin-side up on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is reached.

Glaze the Chicken

During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the reserved marinade over the chicken for a glossy finish.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your tasty balsamic glazed chicken thighs!

Pro Tips

For a smoky flavor, sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side before transferring them to the oven. This will enhance the taste and add a crispier skin.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of balsamic vinegar, a mixture of red wine vinegar and a bit of brown sugar can serve as a substitute. This blend will mimic the tangy sweetness of balsamic, ensuring that the glaze remains flavorful. Additionally, for a lighter option, skinless chicken thighs can be used, although cooking times may vary slightly, as the skin contributes to moisture and flavor during baking.

For those avoiding honey, agave syrup or maple syrup can be great alternatives. They provide similar sweetness and will caramelize nicely, allowing you to keep the dish flavorful without compromising your dietary needs.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe shines when made ahead of time. You can prepare the marinade and add the chicken thighs a full day in advance; simply let them sit in the fridge to develop their flavors. This technique also works well for meal prepping, allowing you to portion out servings for the week. Just remember to mix the marinade and chicken thoroughly to ensure every piece is flavorful before sealing them in the bag.

Another option is to cook the chicken completely and then reheat it before serving. Just note that reheating can sometimes dry out the meat, so placing it in a covered dish with a bit of broth can help keep it moist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be mindful that chicken breasts will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

→ What sides go well with balsamic glazed chicken?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.