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Flavorful Balsamic Fig Glazed Chicken

balsamic fig glazed chicken - featured image

A quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring juicy chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy balsamic fig sauce. Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe balances comfort and gourmet flavors with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
  • ½ cup fig preserves (150g)
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar (60ml)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup water or chicken broth (60ml)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, combine fig preserves, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard (if using), and thyme leaves. Stir until smooth and pourable. (3 minutes)
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken breasts and cook without moving until golden brown on one side, about 5-6 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes. (10-12 minutes)
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the fig balsamic glaze over the chicken. Spoon glaze over each breast to coat well. Simmer gently, spooning every couple of minutes, until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C), about 6-8 minutes. Add water or broth if glaze thickens too much. (10 minutes)
  5. Remove chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Spoon any extra glaze from the pan over the top before serving.

Notes

Keep heat medium-low when simmering glaze to prevent burning. Stir frequently and add water or broth if glaze thickens too much. Use room temperature chicken for even cooking. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness if desired. Can substitute chicken thighs for juicier results. Glaze can be made ahead and stored in fridge for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

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