Balsamic Fig Glaze Chicken (Printable Version)
Tender chicken thighs with a sticky-sweet balsamic fig glaze, garnished with walnuts and cheese for an impressive weeknight dinner.
# Everything You’ll Need:
01 -
6 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 (approximately 3 tablespoons)
06 -
2 garlic cloves, minced
07 -
12 ounces fig preserves
08 -
2 tablespoons honey
09 -
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
10 -
5 sprigs fresh thyme, divided
11 -
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, optional for garnish
12 -
1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese, optional for garnish
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 425°F. 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 diced shallots and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add fig preserves, honey, balsamic vinegar, and 1 sprig of thyme. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until the glaze thickens and reduces by half, approximately 10-12 minutes. Remove and discard the thyme sprig.
03 -
For a smoother glaze, use an immersion blender or transfer the glaze to a stand blender and puree until smooth.
04 -
Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Arrange the chicken snugly in the prepared baking dish. Evenly spoon the reduced glaze over the chicken to coat it. Add the remaining 4 sprigs of thyme to the dish.
05 -
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, basting the chicken with the glaze once during the cooking process. Ensure the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F. Optionally, broil the chicken for the last 3-4 minutes for a golden brown color, but monitor closely to prevent burning.
06 -
Garnish the chicken with fresh thyme sprigs, chopped walnuts, and crumbled gorgonzola cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.