Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs

There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a dish that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, like Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs. I often find myself reminiscing about the evenings filled with delightful aromas wafting through the kitchen, bringing everyone together at the dinner table. This dish transports me back to those moments, with juicy chicken thighs marinated in a luscious blend of honey and balsamic vinegar. The sweetness of the honey complements the tanginess of the balsamic, creating a heavenly glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. Every bite is a celebration of flavors that dances on the palate, making it an instant favorite.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs never fails to impress. I love how versatile this recipe is; you can serve it with a variety of side dishes, and it works wonderfully all year round. The vibrant colors of the blood oranges and radishes not only make the plate pop but also add a refreshing element to the dish. I remember the first time I made this for friends—everyone was raving about how tender and flavorful the chicken was, and they couldn’t believe how easy it was to prepare!

This dish has become a staple in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the ingredients are easily accessible, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. So, let’s gather our ingredients and dive into the magic of Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs!

What to Buy for Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs

The ingredients for Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs come together beautifully to create a flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Each component plays a vital role, from the rich sweetness of honey to the aromatic qualities of garlic and ginger.

• 2 blood oranges (divided) – These bright fruits not only enhance the dish’s flavor but also add a lovely pop of color.
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar – The tangy depth of balsamic vinegar provides a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the honey.
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce – This adds a savory element that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
• ¼ cup unsulphured molasses – This adds richness and depth to the sauce, making it more complex.
• ¼ cup honey – The star of the dish, honey brings a natural sweetness that elevates the entire recipe.
• 3 cloves garlic – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that permeates the chicken.
• 2 small onions (halved) – The sweetness of the onions caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger – A hint of spice that adds warmth to the glaze.
• ½ teaspoon ground sweet paprika – This brings a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for balancing the flavors and enhancing the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil – Used for cooking, it adds a light coconut flavor and helps in browning the chicken.
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Tender and juicy, these thighs soak up the glaze wonderfully.
• 6 radishes – Adds a peppery crunch that complements the tender chicken.
• 4 sprigs thyme – Fresh herbs provide aromatic notes that brighten the dish.
• Ground black pepper (to taste) – A finishing touch for seasoning and flavor.

The Method for Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs

Preparing Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs is an enjoyable process that will fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect outcome!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This initial step ensures that your chicken begins to cook properly and evenly.
2. In a large bowl, squeeze the juice of 1 blood orange and then add the remaining ingredients: balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, molasses, honey, garlic, onions, ground ginger, ground sweet paprika, and kosher salt. Mix well until everything is combined and you have a lovely glaze.
3. Add the chicken thighs into the bowl with the glaze, ensuring each piece is well-coated. It’s important to rub the mixture all over the chicken, letting the flavors infuse.
4. Line an oven tray or baking dish with baking paper. This prevents sticking and makes for an easier cleanup.
5. Transfer the coated chicken into the baking dish and pour the remaining glaze over it, ensuring a generous covering.
6. Slice the remaining blood orange and scatter the slices over the chicken, along with the radishes and thyme. This not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful presentation.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Halfway through, carefully turn the chicken over to ensure both sides cook evenly and absorb the glaze.
8. Remove from the oven when the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Season with ground black pepper to taste, and feel free to drizzle any leftover glaze on top.
9. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Expert Tips about Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs

To make the most of your experience with Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows you to enjoy the flavors even after the first meal.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to two months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
• Reheating: When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out.
• Flavor variations: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the glaze to make it your own. Rosemary or cumin can add an interesting twist!

Serving Options for Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs

When it comes to serving Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs, the options are plentiful! Here are some ideas:

• Roasted Vegetables: Pair your chicken with a medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers for a colorful plate.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious glaze.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can be the perfect companion, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Sandwiches: Leftover chicken can be sliced and added to sandwiches with fresh greens and your favorite condiments for a quick lunch.
• Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for gatherings or holiday dinners, as it looks impressive on the table and tastes divine.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs is a delightful recipe that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a simple, yet impressive way. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, making it a versatile dish to add to your cooking repertoire. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the joy it brings to your table.

Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs

The ultimate comfort food, Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs is a delightfully easy weeknight dinner that's bursting with flavor. Tender chicken thighs are glazed with a perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar, creating a dish that's sure to impress. Try it tonight for an unforgettable meal!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 blood oranges blood oranges divided
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ cup unsulphured molasses
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 small onions halved
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground sweet paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 6 radishes
• 4 sprigs thyme
• ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, squeeze the juice of 1 blood orange. Add the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, molasses, honey, garlic, onions, ground ginger, ground sweet paprika, and kosher salt. Mix well.
3. Add the chicken thighs into the bowl with the glaze and rub the mixture all over.
4. Line an oven tray or baking dish with baking paper.
5. Add the chicken to the baking dish and pour the rest of the glaze over it. Slice the remaining blood orange and add it to the dish. Add the radishes and thyme.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Halfway through, turn the chicken over.
7. Remove from oven. Season with ground black pepper and enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: Line the baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Tip 2: Make sure you rub the balsamic glaze on every part of the chicken.
• Tip 3: Flip the chicken over halfway through the baking time to make sure it cooks evenly.
• Tip 4: Any leftover glaze can be poured over the chicken as is, or you can simmer it to thicken it up.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.