I’m excited to share a recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen – a delicious sheet pan dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the caramelized goodness of Brussels sprouts, all tied together with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
This one-pan wonder is not only easy to prepare but also requires minimal supervision, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or when hosting guests. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the spectacular results it delivers.
The combination of juicy chicken and roasted Brussels sprouts, all coated in a rich balsamic glaze, is sure to impress. It’s a dish that’s both healthy and flavorful, making it a great option for anyone looking for a hassle-free yet impressive meal.
Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Glazed Chicken Recipe
The beauty of this balsamic chicken recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
I love how this chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into a meal that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant. The sheet pan approach allows everything to cook together, melding flavors beautifully while keeping the chicken juicy and the brussels sprouts crispy.
- The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze balances perfectly with the savory chicken and slightly bitter brussels sprouts.
- This recipe is versatile – you can adjust the marinade to your taste and swap in different vegetables depending on the season.
- Minimal cleanup is a huge bonus, with just one sheet pan to wash.
You’ll appreciate the ease and deliciousness of this sheet pan meal, making it a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
What Makes Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Brussels Sprouts Special
What elevates balsamic glazed chicken with roasted Brussels sprouts to a special level is the harmony of its components. This dish is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious.
A Perfect Sheet Pan Dinner
The sheet pan method is a game-changer for this recipe. It allows the chicken to release its flavorful juices, which are then absorbed by the Brussels sprouts as they roast, creating a rich and savory flavor profile. This method also ensures a balanced meal, with protein from the chicken and vitamins and fiber from the Brussels sprouts.
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Easy Preparation | Sheet pan dinners are quick to prepare and require minimal effort. |
| Flavorful | The chicken’s juices infuse the Brussels sprouts with flavor. |
| Nutritionally Balanced | Provides protein, vitamins, and fiber. |
The Magic of Balsamic Glaze
The balsamic glaze is a crucial element that brings everything together. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor to both the chicken and the Brussels sprouts. When reduced during cooking, it creates a sticky, caramelized exterior on the chicken that’s irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Brussels Sprouts, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a delicious and well-rounded meal. The quality of these ingredients will significantly impact the final result, so it’s worth choosing the best you can find.
For the Chicken
For the chicken component, you can use either bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum juiciness or boneless chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. I recommend using chicken thighs as they stay extra juicy and moist when roasted, and the skin gets all golden and crispy.
For the Brussels Sprouts
The star of the Brussels sprouts preparation is simplicity. You’ll need fresh Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved), olive oil, salt, and pepper to achieve those perfectly caramelized edges. The freshness of the sprouts is crucial for the best flavor and texture.
For the Balsamic Glaze
My balsamic glaze combines high-quality balsamic vinegar with honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and a touch of salt and pepper for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Using a good balsamic vinegar makes a significant difference as it reduces to a thick, flavorful glaze.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs/Breasts | 4-6 pieces | Bone-in, skin-on for thighs |
| Brussels Sprouts | 1-2 pounds | Trimmed and halved |
| Balsamic Vinegar | 1/2 cup | High-quality |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | For roasting sprouts |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced for glaze |
Kitchen Tools Required
For a stress-free cooking experience with this recipe, having the right kitchen tools is crucial. A heavy-duty sheet pan is a must-have; I recommend a high-quality, rimmed baking sheet to contain juices released during cooking.
To prepare this balsamic glazed chicken dish, you’ll also need a few other essential tools. A pair of tongs makes handling and flipping the chicken pieces much easier without losing any of that precious balsamic glaze.
- A small saucepan is necessary if you’re reducing additional balsamic vinegar for an extra drizzle of glaze before serving.
- Measuring cups and spoons are crucial for getting the perfect balance of ingredients in your balsamic marinade.
- I find that a silicone brush is ideal for applying the balsamic glaze to the chicken during cooking, helping to create that beautiful glazed finish.
How to Make Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Creating a delicious balsamic glazed chicken with roasted Brussels sprouts is easier than you think. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it’s all made on one sheet pan.
Preparing the Balsamic Marinade
To start, I make the balsamic marinade by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This marinade is the key to flavorful chicken, so I make sure to mix it well.
Marinating the Chicken
Next, I place the chicken thighs in a large glass bowl and pour the marinade over them. I let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 1 to 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the meat to absorb all the delicious flavors.
Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
While the chicken is marinating, I prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming the ends, removing any discolored outer leaves, and cutting them in half. This helps to maximize the surface area for caramelization.
Arranging the Sheet Pan
When it’s time to cook, I remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a sheet pan, nestling it between the Brussels sprouts and sliced onions. I make sure to leave some space between the chicken pieces and distribute the vegetables in a single layer for even cooking.
Baking Instructions
I bake the chicken and Brussels sprouts in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes for the chicken to cook through.
- The Brussels sprouts will become tender inside and crispy outside.
- About halfway through cooking, I brush additional balsamic glaze on the chicken.
Making the Balsamic Glaze
To make the balsamic glaze, I simmer the remaining marinade in a small saucepan over medium-low heat for 8 to 10 minutes. It thickens up and becomes syrupy, perfect for brushing over the chicken during the last few minutes of baking.
By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious balsamic glazed chicken with roasted Brussels sprouts that’s sure to become a favorite.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve perfect results with your balsamic glazed chicken and roasted Brussels sprouts, consider these expert tips. Making a delicious sheet pan dinner is not just about following a recipe; it’s about understanding the nuances that elevate a good dish to a great one.
Choosing the Right Chicken
I’ve found that bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for this recipe as they stay juicier during the high-heat roasting. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, consider brining them first to ensure they remain moist. Using the right type of chicken is crucial for the overall success of the dish.
Brussels Sprouts Preparation Tips
For perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts, make sure they’re completely dry after washing. Cutting them with the flat side down on the sheet pan maximizes browning, resulting in a more flavorful and visually appealing side dish.
Timing and Temperature Guidelines
The ideal temperature for this sheet pan meal is 425°F, creating the perfect environment for both the chicken to cook through and the Brussels sprouts to caramelize. I always recommend using an instant-read thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for breasts or 170-175°F for thighs. Additionally, lining the sheet pan with parchment paper or foil can make cleanup easier, but using the bare pan can enhance browning on the Brussels sprouts due to better heat conduction.
Recipe Variations to Try
The balsamic glaze recipe is a canvas waiting for your creative touch. One of the joys of cooking is experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create something new and exciting. This sheet pan balsamic chicken recipe is no exception, offering a versatile base that can be modified to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
Honey Balsamic Version
For a sweeter take on the classic recipe, try making a honey balsamic version by replacing the maple syrup with honey and adding a touch of Dijon mustard. This adds a more complex flavor profile to the dish, making it perfect for those who prefer a slightly sweeter glaze.
Pomegranate Balsamic Option
To give your balsamic chicken a festive twist, especially during fall and winter, incorporate pomegranate molasses into the glaze. This adds a deep, sweet, and tart flavor to the juicy chicken. Garnish with fresh pomegranate arils for a beautiful and delicious presentation.
Alternative Vegetables
If Brussels sprouts aren’t your favorite, don’t worry! This recipe works beautifully with other vegetables like broccoli florets, cauliflower, or a colorful medley of bell peppers. You can also add halved cherry tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a Mediterranean twist. For a heartier meal, consider adding halved baby potatoes to the sheet pan, giving them a 10-15 minute head start in the oven.
What to Serve with Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Serving balsamic glazed chicken with the right accompaniments can elevate the dining experience. This dish is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a simple starch or a fresh salad can make it even more satisfying.
Side Dish Suggestions
For a hearty meal, consider serving the balsamic glazed chicken with herb roasted potatoes, rustic style mashed potatoes, or whipped sweet potatoes with sage. Other options include jasmine rice, wild rice salad, or zucchini with rice. Roasted asparagus wrapped with prosciutto or steamed broccoli florets also make excellent accompaniments.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Herb Roasted Potatoes | A flavorful and filling side that complements the balsamic chicken. |
| Jasmine Rice | A light and fluffy rice dish that pairs well with the rich balsamic sauce. |
| Roasted Asparagus | A delicious and healthy option that adds a nice crunch to the meal. |
Wine Pairing Recommendations
For wine pairings, a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Sangiovese works well with the balsamic flavors. If you prefer white wine, a slightly oaked Chardonnay or a crisp Pinot Grigio complements the tangy-sweet profile of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage and reheating are crucial to enjoying your Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Brussels Sprouts throughout the week. This sheet pan dinner is perfect for meal prep, and with the right techniques, you can savor it for days.
Refrigerating Leftovers
To store leftovers, place the Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Roasted Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This meal will keep for up to 4 days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to maintain the texture and flavor.
- Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Freezing Options
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and Brussels sprouts. Use freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
- Use freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight and reheat covered with foil.
Conclusion
This sheet pan meal is a game-changer for busy weeknights, and I’m confident you’ll love it. The combination of tender chicken, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and sweet-tangy balsamic sauce creates a restaurant-quality dinner that’s easy to make.
I hope this balsamic glazed chicken with roasted Brussels sprouts recipe becomes a staple in your dinner rotation. Feel free to make it your own by adjusting the seasonings or trying different vegetables.
With minimal effort and cleanup, you can enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try and let me know your thoughts!
