There’s something irresistibly comforting about the perfect harmony of savory and tangy flavors dancing on your palate – and few dishes capture this balance better than a balsamic glazed chicken paired with crispy Brussels sprouts. This culinary duo transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant plate that’s as visually stunning as it is indeed delicious. The sweet and slightly acidic balsamic glaze caramelizes beautifully over tender chicken, while the Brussels sprouts offer a satisfying crunch, roasted to golden perfection.
Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests with a dish that’s both elegant and approachable, savory balsamic glazed chicken with crispy Brussels sprouts is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so captivating and how you can effortlessly bring it to your table.
Savory Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Savory Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Crispy Brussels Sprouts is a dazzling feast that pairs the irresistible tangy-sweet richness of balsamic glaze with the earthy crunch of perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts and tender, juicy chicken. Inspired by Mediterranean flavors and perfected through years of culinary exploration, this dish elevates weeknight dinners to gourmet status with every bite.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
yield
Serves 4 hungry appetites
Difficulty Level
Medium – Perfect for home cooks looking to sharpen their skills and impress guests
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, untill thickened and syrupy-about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prep Brussels sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons olive oil,salt,and pepper. Spread them cut-side down on a baking sheet to ensure maximum surface contact for crisping.
- Roast Brussels sprouts: Place the sheet in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven and roast for 20 minutes. Halfway through, flip for even caramelization.
- Sear the chicken: While the sprouts roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Place skin-side down; cook undisturbed until skin is golden brown and crisp, about 7-8 minutes.
- Flip and infuse flavour: Turn chicken over and add minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).Spoon some glaze over chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a glossy finish.
- Combine and serve: remove Brussels sprouts and chicken from heat. Drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over both. Garnish the platter with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for an aromatic touch.
Tips for Success
- Brussels Sprouts: Make sure to trim the stems properly and halve the sprouts uniformly for even roasting and perfect crispness.
- Chicken Skin: Pat the chicken skin dry with paper towels before seasoning to help it crisp up beautifully.
- Balsamic Glaze: Stir frequently near the end of cooking the glaze to avoid burning; its thick texture should easily coat the back of a spoon.
- Make Ahead: The balsamic glaze can be prepared up to a week in advance and refrigerated in an airtight container. Warm gently before use.
- Substitutions: For a lighter option, boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used, but monitor cooking time carefully to keep them juicy.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines when plated simply with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Add a bright pop with a lemon wedge on the side or a handful of toasted pine nuts over the Brussels sprouts for texture contrast. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy couscous salad to soak up the luscious balsamic glaze.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
Want to explore more delicious chicken recipes? Check out our Roasted Lemon Herb Chicken for another easy yet flavorful meal option. For a deeper dive into balsamic vinegar’s health benefits and culinary uses, visit Healthline’s extensive guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Savory Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Q1: what makes this balsamic glazed chicken recipe so special?
A1: It’s the perfect harmony of sweet and tangy balsamic reduction paired with tender, juicy chicken. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a rich, savory coating that elevates simple roasted chicken into a mouthwatering centerpiece.
Q2: How do the Brussels sprouts complement the chicken?
A2: The Brussels sprouts bring a crispy, slightly bitter crunch that contrasts with the succulent chicken and sweet glaze.Roasting them until golden caramelizes their natural sugars,adding layers of flavor that balance the dish perfectly.
Q3: Can I make this recipe on a weeknight?
A3: Absolutely! This dish is surprisingly speedy and straightforward. With a little prep, you can have dinner on the table in about 30-40 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy evenings that demand big flavor with minimal fuss.
Q4: is balsamic glaze easy to make at home?
A4: Yes! It’s simply balsamic vinegar simmered down until thick and syrupy. You can add a touch of honey or brown sugar for extra sweetness if you like. Homemade glaze gives you control over sweetness and depth, far better than store-bought versions.
Q5: What tips do you have for achieving crispy Brussels sprouts?
A5: Cut them evenly and don’t overcrowd the pan-air circulation is key for crispiness. Roast at a high temperature (around 425°F/220°C) and toss them halfway through. Adding a splash of olive oil and seasoning with salt enhances both texture and flavor.
Q6: Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?
A6: Definitely! This glaze works wonderfully on pork chops,salmon,or even tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly, but the balsamic glaze’s bold flavor pairs well with a variety of proteins.
Q7: What sides pair well with this dish?
A7: Keep it simple with garlic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a fresh green salad. The richness of the glaze and crisp sprouts makes lighter, creamy, or acidic sides excellent companions.
Q8: Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
A8: Yes, both the glazed chicken and roasted Brussels sprouts reheat beautifully. store them separately to maintain crispness and pop them in the oven or microwave before serving. It’s a flavorful, nutritious lunch or dinner for the days ahead!
Q9: How can I add more depth to the balsamic glaze?
A9: Try infusing your glaze with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme while it simmers, or add a splash of soy sauce or Dijon mustard for complexity. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also introduce a subtle kick.
Q10: What wine would you recommend with savory balsamic glazed chicken?
A10: A medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir or Merlot pairs beautifully, complementing the glaze’s sweetness and the sprouts’ earthiness. For white lovers, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with herbal notes also works wonders.
Wrapping Up
Bringing together the rich tang of balsamic glaze and the satisfying crunch of perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts,this savory chicken dish proves that simple ingredients can create unusual flavors. Whether you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress guests with a balanced blend of sweet, savory, and earthy notes, this recipe delivers on every front. So next time you crave a meal that’s both comforting and elegant, remember-sometiems all it takes is a drizzle of glaze and a sprinkle of crisp to transform the ordinary into something unforgettable.
