Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The flavor balance in Peach Balsamic Chicken Thighs is simply irresistible. The combination of balsamic vinegar and honey creates a rich, tangy glaze that complements the sweetness of the peaches, while the chicken thighs stay juicy and tender. The slight caramelization from searing the chicken and baking it in the marinade ensures maximum flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s gluten-free, easy to prepare, and requires minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Peaches and Marinade: Once the chicken is seared, add the sliced peaches around the chicken in the skillet. Pour the reserved marinade over everything.
- Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve with the caramelized peaches and balsamic reduction.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Variations
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for anyone on a gluten-free diet.
- Chicken Breasts: You can substitute chicken thighs with bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust cooking time for the larger cut of meat (about 35-40 minutes in the oven).
- Grilled Version: For a smoky twist, you can grill the chicken instead of searing it. Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side before adding the peaches and balsamic marinade.
- Add Spices: Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken juicy.
- Freezing: For freezing, wrap the chicken thighs tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as instructed.
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since boneless thighs cook faster, usually about 20-25 minutes in the oven.
2. Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may dry out faster than thighs. Make sure to monitor the internal temperature and remove them from the oven once they reach 165°F (74°C).
3. What can I serve with Peach Balsamic Chicken Thighs?
These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple green salad. The sweetness of the peaches and the tang of the balsamic dressing complement a variety of sides.
4. Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Fresh peaches are recommended for this dish, as they caramelize better in the pan. If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken a day in advance to save time on the day you plan to cook it. Just be sure to store the marinated chicken in the fridge.
6. Is there a substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. However, balsamic gives this dish its signature flavor.
7. Can I make this recipe with a different type of fruit?
Yes, you can substitute peaches with other fruits like nectarines, plums, or even apples. The caramelization from the fruit will still work beautifully with the balsamic marinade.
8. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling the chicken will add a smoky flavor that pairs well with the peaches. Just grill the chicken on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side before adding the peaches and balsamic marinade.
9. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh for perfect, juicy chicken.
10. Can I use honey substitute for the marinade?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar. Both will add sweetness and work well with the balsamic vinegar.
Conclusion
Peach Balsamic Chicken Thighs are a perfect combination of juicy, savory chicken and the sweet, tangy flavors of peaches and balsamic vinegar. The dish is easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or guests, this recipe is a delicious, gluten-free option that’s as satisfying as it is stunning.
Peach Balsamic Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing, Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Peach Balsamic Chicken Thighs offer a delicious combination of juicy chicken thighs, sweet peaches, and tangy balsamic vinegar, creating a balanced, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
2 ripe peaches, sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes.
- Once the chicken is seared, add the sliced peaches around the chicken in the skillet. Pour the reserved marinade over everything.
- Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve with the caramelized peaches and balsamic reduction.
Notes
This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of searing and baking it.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the marinade.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For freezing, wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with peaches
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
