Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory? Look no further than our Raspberry Balsamic Baked Chicken Thighs! This mouthwatering recipe combines succulent chicken thighs marinated in a rich balsamic glaze, complemented by the vibrant burst of fresh raspberries. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite. With just a little prep time and a few simple ingredients, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to elevate your dinner game!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup raspberries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken thighs will cook evenly and develop a nice, crispy skin.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended. This will create a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- After marinating, remove the chicken thighs from the bag or dish, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- In the same bowl used for the marinade, add the raspberries and gently toss them to coat with any remaining marinade. Scatter the raspberries around the chicken thighs in the baking dish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
- Once the chicken is done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, keeping it moist.
- Serve the baked chicken thighs hot, spooning the roasted raspberries and any pan juices over the top for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious Raspberry Balsamic Baked Chicken Thighs with your favorite side dishes!
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour. If you have the time, marinating overnight will infuse even more flavor into the meat.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh raspberries will provide the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen raspberries can work, but be sure to thaw and drain them before use.
- Check the Chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Crispy Skin Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken thighs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
- Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the chicken.
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they make a delicious addition to salads or wraps. Just shred the chicken and toss it with some greens and your favorite dressing for a quick lunch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 281kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
