Balsamic Honey Chicken

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and tangy flavors, and that’s exactly what you get with this Balsamic Honey Chicken. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something comforting yet simple. As the aroma of the chicken filled the kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. This recipe has a wonderful blend of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully, making it a true favorite in my household.

With the richness of the chicken thighs and the sweet kiss of honey, every bite is a delightful experience. The balsamic vinegar adds depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile, and the best part? It comes together in no time at all. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want to treat yourself after a long day, this dish is sure to impress. I often pair it with some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and it never fails to hit the spot.

What I love most about Balsamic Honey Chicken is its versatility. You can serve it for a cozy weeknight dinner, and it’s also perfect for entertaining guests. The vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste make it a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the eyes. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

What to Buy for Balsamic Honey Chicken

When it comes to the ingredients for Balsamic Honey Chicken, each one plays a crucial role in the final dish. The combination of flavors creates a harmonious balance that’s difficult to resist. You’ll want to select high-quality chicken thighs, as they provide the best flavor and tenderness. The honey adds natural sweetness, while balsamic vinegar gives it that necessary tang. Let’s explore the key ingredients that make this dish shine:

• 1½ lbs chicken thighs: The star of the dish, providing juicy, tender meat that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• 3 dashes ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the seasoning.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• 2½ tablespoons honey: The key ingredient for that sweet touch that balances the tanginess.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Provides the iconic tangy flavor that defines this dish.
• 2 tablespoons water: Helps to create a sauce that coats the chicken.
• Chopped parsley, for garnishing: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Making This Balsamic Honey Chicken

The process of making Balsamic Honey Chicken is as simple as it is rewarding. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and the fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks. Let’s dive into the steps:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt and ground black pepper. Make sure to cover both sides evenly for the best flavor.
2. Next, heat a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add a drizzle of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. The combination will help achieve that beautiful golden crust.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet, skin side down first. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until both sides are nicely browned and crispy. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
4. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t forget to discard excess fat from the pan; we want to keep the dish light!
5. In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute. You’re looking for it to become fragrant and slightly golden, which adds a lovely depth to the dish.
6. Now, add the honey, balsamic vinegar, and water to the skillet. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet, reducing the heat to a simmer. This step allows the chicken to absorb all those delightful flavors.
8. Let the sauce reduce for about 2 minutes until it thickens slightly and the chicken is fully cooked through. You can check if it’s done by cutting into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink left.
9. Once ready, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
10. Serve your Balsamic Honey Chicken immediately, ensuring each piece is coated in that delicious glaze!

Helpful Hints

To make your Balsamic Honey Chicken experience even better, here are some useful tips to enhance your cooking process:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with roasted vegetables or a light salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
• Double the Recipe: Making a bigger batch is great for meal prep or hosting gatherings.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra kick of flavor.

How to Enjoy Balsamic Honey Chicken

Serving Balsamic Honey Chicken can be as delightful as preparing it. Here are some ideas on how to enjoy this delicious dish:

• With Rice: Serve over fluffy rice to soak up the tangy sauce.
• On a Bed of Greens: Pair it with a fresh salad for a light and healthy meal.
• With Seasonal Vegetables: Complement it with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate.
• As a Meal Prep Option: This dish is fantastic for meal prep, as it reheats well.
• For Special Occasions: Serve it at family gatherings or special dinners to impress your guests.

FAQ

Conclusion

Balsamic Honey Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a warming hug on a plate. The sweet and tangy flavors combined with tender chicken create a memorable meal that you’ll want to make again and again. So why not give it a try? You won’t be disappointed!

Balsamic Honey Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Balsamic Honey Chicken combines sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar to create a mouthwatering and easy weeknight dinner. This delightful dish is perfect for busy evenings or impressing guests, making it a must-try!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 3 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 3 dashes ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2.5 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons water
• chopped parsley, for garnishing

Equipment

• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and ground black pepper. Make sure to cover both sides evenly for the best flavor.
2. Next, heat a skillet over medium heat. Once it's hot, add a drizzle of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. The combination will help achieve that beautiful golden crust.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet, skin side down first. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until both sides are nicely browned and crispy. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
4. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t forget to discard excess fat from the pan; we want to keep the dish light!
5. In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute. You’re looking for it to become fragrant and slightly golden, which adds a lovely depth to the dish.
6. Now, add the honey, balsamic vinegar, and water to the skillet. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet, reducing the heat to a simmer. This step allows the chicken to absorb all those delightful flavors.
8. Let the sauce reduce for about 2 minutes until it thickens slightly and the chicken is fully cooked through. You can check if it's done by cutting into the thickest part to ensure there’s no pink left.
9. Once ready, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
10. Serve your Balsamic Honey Chicken immediately, ensuring each piece is coated in that delicious glaze!

Notes

To make your Balsamic Honey Chicken experience even better, here are some useful tips to enhance your cooking process:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with roasted vegetables or a light salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
• Double the Recipe: Making a bigger batch is great for meal prep or hosting gatherings.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra kick of flavor.

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Meet Molly Brooks

I love mixing nostalgic flavors with fun, fresh twists. My goal is to make cooking the best part of your day. I loved making this recipe, and I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home!