Balsamic Glazed Chicken Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Chicken breasts: The main protein of the dish, providing a lean and tender base for the glaze.

Brussels sprouts: These small, cabbage-like vegetables add a unique texture and earthy flavor when roasted.

Olive oil: Used to coat the chicken and sprouts, helping them to roast evenly and adding a subtle richness.

Balsamic vinegar: A key ingredient in the glaze, offering a deep, tangy flavor that enhances the dish.

Honey: Adds sweetness to the glaze, balancing the acidity of the balsamic vinegar.

Garlic: Provides a fragrant, savory note that complements the other flavors.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste by bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and warmth to the dish.

When preparing this dish, ensure that the brussels sprouts are evenly halved to promote uniform cooking. This will help them become tender and caramelized in the oven. Additionally, when drizzling the olive oil over the chicken breasts and brussels sprouts, make sure to coat them thoroughly to enhance the flavor and prevent sticking. For an extra depth of flavor, allow the balsamic mixture to marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes before baking. This will infuse the chicken with a rich, tangy taste that complements the sweetness of the honey.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast is a lean protein similar to chicken and will absorb the flavors of the glaze well.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based alternative that can be marinated to absorb the balsamic glaze flavors.

• brussels sprouts - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli has a similar texture and will roast well with the glaze.

• brussels sprouts - Substitute with asparagus: Asparagus roasts nicely and pairs well with balsamic flavors.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it suitable for roasting.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is neutral in flavor and works well for high-heat cooking.

• balsamic vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar has a tangy flavor that can mimic the acidity of balsamic vinegar.

• balsamic vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar offers a fruity acidity that can complement the dish.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and depth of flavor.

• honey - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a plant-based sweetener with a similar consistency to honey.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor when fresh garlic is unavailable.

• minced garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder garlic flavor and can add a subtle sweetness.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor to the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor profile with a slightly different aroma.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and brussels sprouts in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures the balsamic glaze remains luscious and the chicken stays juicy.

• For a quick fix, use the microwave. Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to prevent drying out, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, add a splash of olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and brussels sprouts, cover, and heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This method helps maintain the texture of the brussels sprouts.

• For an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken and brussels sprouts in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method can help restore some crispness to the brussels sprouts.

• If you have a steamer, place the brussels sprouts in the steamer basket and steam for about 3-5 minutes. Meanwhile, reheat the chicken separately using one of the other methods to avoid overcooking.

• Oven: Used to bake the chicken and brussels sprouts at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Mixing bowl: Utilized to whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic to create the glaze.

• Whisk: Helps in mixing the balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic thoroughly to ensure a smooth glaze.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for arranging the chicken breasts and brussels sprouts for even cooking.

• Knife: Necessary for halving the brussels sprouts and mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: Offers a stable surface for safely cutting the brussels sprouts and garlic.

• Measuring spoons: Used to accurately measure the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey.

• Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken and brussels sprouts on the baking sheet if needed.

Pre-marinating: Marinate the chicken breasts in the balsamic mixture the night before to enhance flavor and save time on prep day.

Sheet pan cooking: Use a large baking sheet to cook everything at once, reducing cleanup and cooking time.

Pre-cut veggies: Buy pre-halved brussels sprouts or cut them in advance to streamline your cooking process.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Quick seasoning: Mix olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and drizzle over the ingredients in one go.