Description

This Balsamic Herb Baked Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of fresh rosemary, winter savory, sage, olive oil, and high-quality balsamic vinegar. The herbs infuse the meat during marination, then the thighs are perfectly baked to golden, delicious perfection. A simple yet elegant dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken and Marinade

1–1.5 pounds chicken thighs (preferably organic or hormone-free, vegetarian-fed)
3 fresh rosemary sprigs
5–9 sprigs dried or fresh Winter Savory herb (use 3 fresh sprigs if substituting for dried)
3 fresh sage leaves, chopped
1/4–1/2 cup olive oil
1–2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (preferably high-quality from Modena, Italy)
1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
1/4–1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper medley, or to taste
1 teaspoon (1 large clove) minced garlic (optional)
Lemon wedges for spritzing (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a baking dish, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, fresh ground pepper medley, minced garlic (if using), rosemary sprigs, winter savory, and chopped sage leaves. Mix well until everything is evenly combined to create the marinade base.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the baking dish and coat each piece thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the dish and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results and deeper flavor, marinate for several hours or overnight (up to 8 hours) in the refrigerator.
Preheat the Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chicken from the refrigerator to come slightly closer to room temperature while the oven heats.
Bake the Chicken Thighs: Place the baking dish with the marinated chicken thighs in the oven. Bake for 25-35 minutes, turning the chicken once halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking.
Rest and Serve: Once fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Optionally, spritz with fresh lemon juice before serving for a bright finish. Enjoy your flavorful balsamic herb baked chicken thighs!

Notes

For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Substitute winter savory with thyme if unavailable.
The amount of olive oil can be adjusted for more or less juice to serve.
Chicken thighs cook well at 350°F, but always ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Lemon wedges provide an optional fresh tangy note when served.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Keywords: baked chicken thighs, balsamic chicken, herb chicken, rosemary chicken, easy chicken recipe, Italian chicken, marinated chicken thighs