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Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love simple chicken recipes that look gourmet but come together in a flash, this Balsamic Glazed Chicken will quickly become your new go-to. Oven-baked for juicy perfection, these thighs are bathed in a sweet-tangy marinade made with pantry staples like balsamic glaze and fresh herbs. With only 10 minutes of prep and under 30 minutes in the oven, this dish makes family dinner both effortless and exciting.
Ingredient List
These easy-to-find ingredients come together for a flavor-packed meal. Click the affiliate links below to upgrade your kitchen experience!
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Extra virgin olive oil | ¼ cup |
| Balsamic glaze | 3 tbsp (store-bought is fine) |
| Tomato paste | 1 tbsp |
| Honey | 1 tsp |
| Lemon juice | From 1 lemon |
| Garlic cloves | 4-5 large, minced |
| Fresh thyme | 1 tbsp |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Sweet paprika | ½ tsp |
| Chicken thighs | 8 boneless, skinless (1½ lbs) |
| Kosher salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze, tomato paste, honey, and lemon juice. Add minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and sweet paprika. Whisk again for a thick, aromatic marinade.
2. Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
3. Marinate
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat. Set aside for a few minutes while preheating the oven. For deeper flavor, cover and refrigerate for 2 hours.
4. Bake
Preheat the oven to 425°F and position a rack in the center. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet or heat-safe skillet. Bake on the center rack for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Serve
Plate the chicken and spoon any remaining glaze from the baking dish over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For even baking, arrange chicken thighs in a single layer.
- Sub chicken breasts if you prefer: add 5–7 minutes to cook time.
- Double the marinade for extra drizzle.
- Serve with roasted veggies or over a salad for a complete meal.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Upgrade your cooking game with these essentials:
- Oven
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knives
- Cutting board
- Baking sheets
- Kitchen utensils
FAQs About Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Adjust the bake time and check for 165°F internal temp.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
Dried works, but use half the amount as a substitute.
Is store-bought balsamic glaze OK?
Absolutely it’s convenient and effective for this recipe.
Does the chicken need to marinate?
A short rest while the oven preheats gives good flavor, but 2+ hours is even better.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
PrintBalsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs : Quick Baked Dinner in 30 Minutes
Oven-baked balsamic glazed chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy mix for easy, flavorful results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp balsamic glaze
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp honey
Juice of 1 lemon
4–5 large garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp sweet paprika
8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (1½ lbs)
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze, tomato paste, honey, and lemon juice. Add garlic, thyme, oregano, paprika; whisk again.
2. Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper.
3. Add chicken to bowl, toss to coat. Let marinate several minutes (or up to 2 hours in fridge).
4. Preheat oven to 425°F.
5. Arrange chicken on baking sheet or in skillet. Bake 25-30 minutes until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
6. Spoon leftover glaze over while serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For bolder flavor, marinate chicken up to 8 hours.
Try doubling marinade for drizzling.
Substitute breasts and adjust bake time as needed.
Serve with roasted vegetables or salad.
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