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Homemade Balsamic Fig Jam Chicken Thigh Tray Bake recipe photo
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Balsamic Fig Jam Chicken Thigh Tray Bake

This Balsamic Fig Jam Chicken Thigh Tray Bake is bursting with sweet and savory flavors, perfect for an easy, impressive one-pan dinner.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chicken, Easy, One-Pan, Sweet and Savory, Tray Bake
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup fresh figs chopped
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup baby spinach

Instructions

Prepare the Balsamic Fig Jam Sauce

  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, chopped fresh figs, honey, minced garlic, and fresh thyme leaves. Stir occasionally and let the mixture simmer gently for about 10–15 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Season the Chicken Thighs

  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Assemble the Tray Bake

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up on a large baking tray. Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Pour the balsamic fig jam sauce evenly over the chicken.

Roast Until Perfectly Cooked

  • Roast in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes until the chicken skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Cherry tomatoes should be soft and caramelized.

Add Baby Spinach and Serve

  • About 5 minutes before the chicken is done, scatter the fresh baby spinach over the tray to wilt. Once cooked and spinach is wilted, remove from oven and serve hot with extra sauce spooned over.

Equipment

  • Small Saucepan
  • Large Baking Tray
  • Oven

Notes

  • Dry the chicken thighs thoroughly to achieve the crispiest skin possible.
  • Use fresh figs for the best natural sweetness and texture in the sauce.
  • Watch the balsamic reduction carefully while simmering to prevent burning.
  • Prep the balsamic fig jam sauce ahead to save time on busy days.
  • Substitute dried figs or chopped dates for fresh figs if unavailable.