Roast chicken is a classic dish, but when you add a rich, tangy balsamic glaze, it becomes something truly special. Balsamic Glazed Roast Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly acidic flavors, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
This recipe features a whole roasted chicken coated in a balsamic glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. The result? Crispy, golden skin and juicy, tender meat with deep, rich flavor. Whether you’re making this for a cozy weeknight meal or serving it for a special gathering, it’s an easy way to elevate your usual roast chicken.
Best of all, it doesn’t require much effort. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple roasting method, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant—right in your own home.
The Must-Have Ingredients for This Flavorful Roast
To get that deep, bold flavor in every bite, these key ingredients play an essential role:
- Whole Chicken – Roasting a whole bird ensures maximum flavor, and you’ll get crispy skin with juicy meat inside. You can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks for a quicker meal.
- Balsamic Vinegar – The star of the glaze! It adds a slightly sweet and tangy depth of flavor that makes this dish stand out.
- Honey or Brown Sugar – Helps balance out the acidity of the vinegar while creating a caramelized, slightly sticky coating.
- Garlic and Herbs – Fresh garlic, rosemary, and thyme bring warmth and depth, making the chicken incredibly aromatic.
Step-By-Step Guide to Making Balsamic Glazed Roast Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully when roasted.
- Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), garlic, and fresh herbs. Let it simmer until slightly thickened.
- Coat the Chicken: Brush the balsamic glaze generously over the chicken, making sure to get every part covered. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes if you have time—it helps the flavors soak in.
- Roast to Perfection: Place the chicken in a roasting pan and cook until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Halfway through, baste it with more glaze for extra flavor.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This keeps the juices inside, making every bite tender and flavorful.
Ways to Switch It Up
Want to tweak the recipe to match your preferences? Here are a few ideas to experiment with:
- Spicy Glaze – Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a little heat.
- Citrus Twist – Squeeze fresh orange or lemon juice into the glaze for a bright, tangy contrast.
- Herb-Infused – Swap out rosemary and thyme for sage or oregano to change up the flavor profile.
- Boneless Option – If you’re short on time, use boneless chicken breasts or thighs and reduce the roasting time.
What Makes This Balsamic Roast Chicken a Standout Dish?
This isn’t just another roasted chicken—it’s packed with deep, caramelized flavor that transforms a simple meal into something truly special. Here’s why it works so well:
- The Glaze Locks in Flavor – The balsamic mixture creates a sticky, flavorful coating that caramelizes in the oven.
- Juicy, Tender Meat – Roasting at the right temperature keeps the chicken moist and perfectly cooked.
- Crispy, Golden Skin – Drying the chicken before roasting and basting it with glaze ensures a beautiful, crispy finish.
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Side Dishes That Go Perfectly with Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Pair this dish with the right sides to make it a well-rounded meal. Here are a few great choices:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture of mashed potatoes balances the bold flavors of the glaze.
- Sautéed Green Beans – A light and fresh side to contrast the richness of the chicken.
- Wild Rice Pilaf – The nutty flavor of wild rice complements the balsamic glaze beautifully.
- Roasted Carrots with Honey – Sweet, caramelized carrots pair wonderfully with the tangy balsamic glaze.
Balsamic Glazed Roast Chicken
Equipment
- Roasting Pan For even cooking and crispy skin
- Small Saucepan For preparing the balsamic glaze
- Basting Brush For coating the chicken with glaze
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4 pounds
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar for the glaze
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar for balancing acidity
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme, for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- In a saucepan, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and rosemary. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Brush the glaze all over the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roast for about 1 hour, basting with more glaze halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use the leftover glaze as a sauce for serving.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!
Sherry Eiler
Friday 7th of March 2025
Such a well-thought-out recipe—came together perfectly.
Frank Byrd
Friday 7th of March 2025
Loved every bite—this recipe is gold!