Mastering Balsamic Fig Glazed Chicken: A Campfire Cooking Guide Recipe

Introduction

This balsamic fig glazed chicken is a perfect blend of tangy and sweet flavors, making it an impressive yet easy dish to prepare. Ideal for campfire cooking or a cozy kitchen meal, the glaze adds a rich depth that complements tender chicken breasts beautifully.

A black cast iron pan holds four browned chicken thighs with crispy skin covered in a dark, glossy sauce with caramelized onions on top. Around the chicken are halved figs showing their bright red interiors with white edges. Green sprigs of rosemary and thyme are placed evenly among the chicken and figs, adding fresh green color to the dish. The pan is set on a white marbled texture surface with a soft focus on background elements. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup figs, sliced or chopped (fresh or dried)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme, to taste (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Step 4: Pour in the balsamic vinegar and bring to a simmer. Add the chopped figs and honey, stirring to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture reduces and thickens slightly.
  5. Step 5: Return the chicken to the skillet, turning to coat thoroughly in the balsamic fig glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes. Serve garnished with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired.
  7. Step 7: For a thicker glaze, simmer the balsamic mixture longer until it reaches the desired consistency before adding the chicken back in.

Tips & Variations

  • Use dried figs if fresh are unavailable; soak them briefly in warm water to soften before chopping.
  • Add a splash of chicken broth to the glaze for extra depth and to help adjust the consistency.
  • Try substituting honey with maple syrup or brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover glazed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the glaze’s flavor and moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

A black cast iron skillet sits on a white marbled surface, filled with six browned and slightly charred chicken thighs, each showing a crispy texture and deep golden-brown color. Around and between the chicken pieces are halved fresh figs, showing their soft, pink inner flesh with tiny seeds and dark purple outer skin. Small green sprigs of fresh thyme rest on top of the chicken and figs, adding a touch of green freshness. The skillet holds a shallow layer of glistening flavorful sauce that reflects light. A few whole figs are placed casually around the skillet on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken breasts can be used, but you will need to increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What if I don’t have fresh herbs for garnish?

If fresh rosemary or thyme isn’t available, you can omit the garnish or use a small pinch of dried herbs sprinkled over the chicken before serving for a subtle herbal note.

Print

Mastering Balsamic Fig Glazed Chicken: A Campfire Cooking Guide Recipe

This balsamic fig glazed chicken recipe offers a deliciously tangy and sweet flavor, perfectly balancing tender chicken breasts with a rich reduction of balsamic vinegar, figs, and honey. Cooked on the stovetop for easy, quick preparation, it’s an ideal dish for both everyday meals and special occasions, garnished with fresh herbs to add a fragrant finish.

  • Author: Mia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Approximately 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Balsamic Fig Glaze

  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup figs, sliced or chopped (fresh or dried)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh rosemary or thyme, to taste

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
  3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn to avoid bitterness.
  4. Make the Glaze: Pour the balsamic vinegar into the skillet, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the chopped figs and honey, cooking the mixture for 5-7 minutes until it reduces slightly and thickens into a glaze.
  5. Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, turning them to coat thoroughly with the balsamic fig glaze. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld together.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes. Serve on a platter, garnished with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired for an aromatic touch.
  7. Optional Glaze Thickening: For a thicker glaze, continue simmering the balsamic fig mixture before adding the chicken until it reaches your preferred consistency.

Notes

  • Use fresh figs if available for a more vibrant flavor; dried figs work well too but may require slightly longer simmering to soften.
  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
  • Keep an eye on the garlic when sautéing to prevent burning and bitterness.
  • Customize sweetness by adjusting the amount of honey in the glaze based on your preference.
  • This recipe can be prepared with bone-in chicken breasts but requires longer cooking time.

Keywords: balsamic chicken, fig glaze, skillet chicken, quick dinner, balsamic vinegar chicken, honey glazed chicken, stovetop chicken, savory sweet chicken

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