Balsamic Fig Glaze Chicken (Printable Version)
Sticky-sweet chicken thighs glazed with balsamic fig preserves, garnished with walnuts and gorgonzola for an impressive weeknight meal.
# Ingredients:
01 -
6 whole boneless skinless chicken thighs
02 -
Kosher salt, to taste
03 -
Black pepper, to taste
04 -
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
05 -
1 medium shallot, finely diced (about 3 heaping tablespoons)
06 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
12 ounces fig preserves
08 -
2 tablespoons honey
09 -
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
10 -
5 sprigs fresh thyme, divided, plus more for garnish
11 -
½ cup walnuts, chopped (optional, for garnish)
12 -
½ cup gorgonzola cheese, crumbled (optional, for garnish)
# Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray an 8x8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
02 -
Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add shallots and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir in fig preserves, honey, balsamic vinegar, and 1 sprig of thyme. Increase heat to bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened and reduced by half, about 10-12 minutes. Remove and discard thyme sprig. Optional: Blend the glaze using an immersion blender or transfer to a stand blender for a smoother texture.
03 -
Place chicken thighs on a clean work surface and pat dry. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper. Transfer to the prepared baking dish, arranging them snugly. Spoon the reduced glaze over the chicken, using the back of a spoon to evenly coat. Add the remaining 4 thyme sprigs to the dish.
04 -
Transfer the baking dish to the oven. Roast for 35-40 minutes, basting the chicken with glaze once during cooking, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear. Optional: Switch oven to broil during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking for a golden brown finish. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
05 -
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. Garnish with fresh thyme, walnuts, and gorgonzola cheese if desired. Serve and enjoy!
# Notes:
01 -
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.