Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress? Look no further than these Balsamic Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs! With a perfect balance of tangy balsamic vinegar and sweet apricot preserves, this recipe transforms simple chicken thighs into a mouthwatering masterpiece. In just 40 minutes, you can serve up a meal that’s not only delicious but also looks stunning on the plate. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into the recipe and discover how to create a culinary delight that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs
- Balsamic vinegar
- Apricot preserves
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely or use a garlic press to release maximum flavor.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, apricot preserves, minced garlic, and olive oil until well combined and smooth.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Brush half of the balsamic apricot glaze generously over the chicken thighs, coating them evenly.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the remaining glaze over the chicken to create a caramelized, glossy finish.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for added freshness.
Tips
- Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: Always pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin when roasting.
- Season Generously: Don’t hold back on the salt and pepper! Generously season both sides of the chicken to enhance its natural flavors.
- Maximize Garlic Flavor: For a more robust garlic taste, mince the garlic finely or use a garlic press. The smaller the pieces, the more flavor they will release into the glaze.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When placing the chicken on the baking sheet, make sure there’s enough space between each piece. This allows the heat to circulate and ensures even cooking.
- Glaze for the Win: Brush half of the balsamic apricot glaze on the chicken before roasting, and save the rest for the last 10 minutes. This creates a beautiful caramelized finish that enhances both flavor and presentation.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked thighs.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy.
- Garnish for Freshness: For an extra pop of color and flavor, consider garnishing your dish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 423kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 100mg
