Balsamic Glazed Chicken – Sweet & Savory Recipes for Dinner

Okay, this balsamic glazed chicken is basically the lovechild of sweet and savory goodness — and I just can’t wait to tell you all about it! Imagine juicy chicken thighs, caramelized with a sticky, tangy glaze that smells like a warm hug in your kitchen. If you like a dinner that’s full of flavor but super simple to whip up, this recipe is your new best friend. Plus, there’s something magically satisfying about cooking chicken in a skillet and finishing it off with that shiny, syrupy balsamic reduction. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will have a permanent spot on your weeknight rotation.

Quick Facts

• Yield: Serves 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

• 4 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)

How I Make It

Step 1:

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides generously with salt and pepper. This is key to getting that beautiful browned crust later.

Step 2:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Let them cook undisturbed for about 6–7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Resist the urge to poke or move them early!

Step 3:

Flip the chicken over and cook another 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic around the chicken, stirring it gently to release its aroma but not burn it.

Step 4:

Mix together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Pour this mixture into the skillet, tip the pan slightly, and scoop that gorgeous glaze over the chicken pieces.

Step 5:

Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chicken as it thickens. This is when the magic happens—the sauce will become glossy, sticky, and packed with flavor.

Step 6:

Check that the chicken is cooked through (an internal temp of 165°F is perfect). Sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary if you have it, then serve the chicken smothered in that irresistible balsamic glaze.

Variations & Tips

• Use chicken breasts if you prefer white meat, but reduce cooking time slightly so they don’t dry out.
• Add a splash of chicken broth when simmering the sauce if you want it less thick or a little more sauce.
• For a smoky twist, toss in a pinch of smoked paprika when seasoning the chicken.
• Don’t have honey? Maple syrup or brown sugar works just as well for sweetness.
• Serve with roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete comforting meal.

How I Like to Serve It

This balsamic glazed chicken shines on a cozy weeknight, paired with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. In warmer months, I love plating it with a fresh arugula salad tossed with shaved Parmesan and lemon vinaigrette. It’s perfect for impressing guests too—just add a crusty baguette to mop up every last drop of that sticky glaze.

Notes

• Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the glaze from becoming too thick or sticky.

Closing: This recipe never fails to deliver juicy chicken with a balanced sweet and tangy punch—making dinner feel like a real treat without much fuss.