Balsamic Glazed Roasted Chicken

Name: Balsamic Glazed Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on); 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh rosemary for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Balsamic Glazed Roasted Chicken on cozy evenings. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the chicken a deep flavor that’s simply irresistible. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making this dish a favorite for family dinners or special occasions. It’s not just delicious; it’s also an impressive centerpiece that always leaves my guests asking for the recipe. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with seasonal vegetables, making it a go-to in my kitchen.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:21:28.772Z

When I first tried Balsamic Glazed Roasted Chicken, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such a depth of flavor. The key is in allowing the chicken to soak up the balsamic vinegar and honey mixture before roasting. I like to marinate it for at least an hour, but even 30 minutes can make a difference. The result is a tender chicken with a glaze that's both glossy and inviting.

One tip I’ve learned along the way is to balance the roasting time with your oven’s temperature. I start at a higher temperature to get that golden-brown color and then reduce it to ensure the chicken cooks through without drying out. This method has never failed me!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The sweet-and-sour glaze adds a complex flavor.
Roasting brings out the natural juices and tenderness of the chicken.
Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests.

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is key to achieving deep flavor in your Balsamic Glazed Roasted Chicken. Combining the balsamic vinegar with honey not only tones down the acidity but also helps create that beautiful glaze as it caramelizes. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if time allows, marinating overnight in the refrigerator can intensify the flavors even more. Make sure to turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even coating and infusing of flavors.

Be mindful of the salt content in your seasoning—using too much can overpower the delicate balance of sweet and tangy that this dish offers. If you prefer, you can substitute honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that this may affect the overall sweetness of the glaze.

Perfecting the Roast

Roasting the chicken at a high temperature initially allows the skin to crisp up beautifully, creating an appealing texture. After 25 minutes at 425°F (220°C), reducing the heat to 350°F (175°C) helps cook the chicken through without drying it out. The key is monitoring the internal temperature; a meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh for optimal juiciness and safety.

Keep an eye on the chicken during the final roasting phase. If the skin starts to darken too quickly before reaching the safe temperature, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the inside finishes cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Balsamic Glazed Roasted Chicken.

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh rosemary for garnish

Make sure you have everything prepped before you start cooking for the best results!

Cooking Steps

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Roast the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and roast for 25 minutes at 425°F. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your delicious Balsamic Glazed Roasted Chicken!

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, consider adding sliced onions or your favorite vegetables to the roasting pan.

Serving Suggestions

Balsamic Glazed Roasted Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Roasted seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the dish's flavors. I often add a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

For a cozy touch, consider serving the chicken atop a bed of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes. The creamy texture complements the glaze beautifully and provides a comforting element to your dinner. Don't forget to drizzle some of the pan juices over the plating for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Balsamic Glazed Roasted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To retain the glaze's flavor and moisture for reheating, cover the chicken with foil. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes, rather than using the microwave, which can dry out the chicken.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. It should keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require less cooking time.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor.

→ What side dishes pair well with this chicken?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad complement this dish beautifully.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Absolutely! Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.