Print

Savory Honey Balsamic Chicken with Crispy Brussels Sprouts

honey balsamic chicken - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring juicy chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and tangy honey balsamic sauce, paired with crispy roasted Brussels sprouts. Perfect for cozy dinners and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 3 tablespoons honey (raw or local preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (aged for richer flavor)
  • 1 lb (450 g) fresh Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Allow it to fully heat for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Rinse and trim the Brussels sprouts, then cut each in half lengthwise. Toss with 1.5 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread cut-side down on a baking sheet and set aside.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
  4. Heat a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and add 1.5 tablespoons olive oil. Once shimmering, add chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear without moving for 6-7 minutes until skin is deep golden and crispy.
  5. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes to brown the other side.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard to make the glaze.
  7. Pour the glaze evenly over the chicken, then transfer the skillet to the oven. Place the Brussels sprouts baking sheet in the oven as well.
  8. Roast for 15-18 minutes, basting the chicken once or twice with pan juices. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. Check Brussels sprouts for tenderness and crispiness. If needed, roast an additional 5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  10. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain juiciness.
  11. Serve the chicken alongside the crispy Brussels sprouts, spooning any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry is essential for crispiness. Use medium-high heat for searing and avoid moving the chicken too soon. Roast Brussels sprouts cut-side down without overcrowding for maximum crispiness. Baste chicken carefully to keep skin intact. If glaze thickens too much, add a splash of water to loosen before basting. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Keywords: honey balsamic chicken, crispy Brussels sprouts, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, roasted Brussels sprouts, savory chicken, weeknight meal