A Homemade Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken & 5 Best Variations

Balsamic glazed fried chicken is a flavorful and savory dish that combines the crispy, fried goodness of chicken with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.

Balsamic glazed fried chicken is known for its unique blend of savory and sweet flavors, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a twist on classic fried chicken.

What Is The Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken?

Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken is a dish that features crispy fried chicken coated with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. The chicken is typically breaded and fried until golden and crisp.

Then, it’s drizzled or coated with a glaze made from balsamic vinegar, often combined with sugar, garlic, and other flavorings.

This combination of savory fried chicken and the rich, syrupy balsamic glaze creates a flavorful and indulgent dish that combines contrasting textures and tastes.

How Long Will It Take To Prepare?

• Marinate Time: If you choose to marinate the chicken, this step can take anywhere from 2 hours to overnight.
• Preparation Time: Preparing the chicken (pounding, seasoning, and breading) usually takes 15-20 minutes.
• Bread Time: Coating the chicken in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs typically takes another 10-15 minutes.
• Frying Time: Frying the chicken can take approximately 8-10 minutes per side, depending on the chicken’s thickness and the oil’s temperature. You may need to fry in batches.
• Total Time: If you include marinating for 2 hours and add up the other steps, it can take around 3-3.5 hours from start to finish. However, skipping the marinating step can prepare it in about 45-60 minutes.
• Serving: This recipe usually serves 4, but you can adjust the quantities to match your needs.
• Difficulty Level: Balsamic glazed fried chicken is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty. It involves several steps, including frying, making the glaze, and coordinating timing, so it’s not the most straightforward dish, but it’s achievable with some cooking experience.

How Do You Make Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken?

Essential Ingredients For Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken:

For the fried chicken

• Four boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Two eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• One teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the balsamic Glaze

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• One clove of garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon honey

Essential Instructions For The Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken:

Step 1

Prep the chicken breasts

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick-season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2

Set up a breading station

In one shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian seasoning (if using).

Step 3

Bread the chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the flour, coating both sides. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.

Step 4

Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to adhere well.

Step 5

Heat the vegetable oil

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C).

Step 6

Fry the chicken

Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 7

Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

Step 8

Make the balsamic glaze

In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, and dried thyme (if using)-season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 9

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the glaze thickens and reduces by half. Stir occasionally.

Step 10

Glaze the chicken

Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the fried chicken breasts just before serving. You can also brush it on for a more even coating.

Step 11

Serve

Serve the balsamic glazed fried chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Additional Tips For Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken:

1. Brining: Consider brining the chicken breasts for a few hours before cooking. This can help keep the chicken moist and flavorful. To make a simple brine, dissolve 1/4 cup of salt in 4 cups of water and immerse the chicken breasts in the brine in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours.
2. Marination: If you have more time, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours or overnight. This can enhance the flavor and tenderize the meat.
3. Temperature Control: A cooking thermometer monitors the oil temperature while frying. Keeping the oil at the right temperature ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that crispy texture.
4. Draining Excess Oil: After frying, place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow excess oil to drain. This helps maintain the crispiness of the fried coating.
5. Balsamic Reduction: If the balsamic glaze becomes too thick during simmering, you can thin it out by adding water or more balsamic vinegar to achieve the desired consistency.
6. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the balsamic glaze as it simmers and adjust the sweetness to your preference. Add more brown sugar for a sweeter glaze, or balance it with a touch of honey if needed.

Precautions for Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken:

1. Safety First: Be cautious when working with hot oil. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, and never leave the hot oil unattended. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
2. Avoid Crowding the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches if needed to prevent overcrowding in the pan. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
3. Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Cut into a piece if necessary to check for doneness.
4. Proper Disposal: Properly dispose of used frying oil. Let it cool completely, strain out any debris, and store it in a sealed container for future use, or take it to a recycling center that accepts used cooking oil.
5. Careful When Reducing Glaze: Be attentive when simmering the balsamic glaze, as it can boil over or burn if left unattended on high heat.
6. Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Consider any dietary restrictions or allergies when making this dish. Balsamic glaze often contains sulfites, which can concern some individuals with sensitivities.

Nutrition Facts Of Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken

It’s important to note that these are approximate values and can vary based on factors such as the size of the chicken breast, the amount of breading, the cooking method, and the specific ingredients used in the balsamic glaze.

The nutrition values do not include any sides, additional sauces, or condiments that may be served with the chicken.

5 Best Variations Of Balsamic Glazed Fried Chicken

1. Balsamic Strawberry Glazed Fried Chicken

Make a sweet and tangy glaze by combining balsamic vinegar, fresh strawberries, and a bit of sugar. Simmer until it thickens, then drizzle it over your fried chicken. The combination of savory fried chicken and fruity glaze is delightful.

2. Balsamic Honey Mustard Glazed Fried Chicken

Combine balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of garlic for a savory-sweet glaze with a hint of tanginess. Brush it onto your fried chicken for a flavorful twist.

3. Balsamic Maple Glazed Fried Chicken

Mix balsamic vinegar with pure maple syrup and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet and slightly spicy glaze. This combination pairs well with the crispy texture of fried chicken.

4. Balsamic BBQ Glazed Fried Chicken

Create a unique fusion by mixing balsamic vinegar with your favorite barbecue sauce. Simmer until it thickens, and use it as a glaze for your fried chicken. It adds smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors to your dish.

5. Balsamic Fig Glazed Fried Chicken

Make a rich and luxurious glaze by combining balsamic vinegar with fig preserves or dried figs. Simmer until it thickens, then drizzle it over the fried chicken. The sweet, earthy flavor of figs pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.

Conclusion

Balsamic glazed fried chicken is a delightful dish that combines the crispy texture of fried chicken with the sweet, tangy, and savory flavors of balsamic glaze.

This versatile recipe can be customized with different glaze variations, such as strawberry, honey mustard, maple, BBQ, or fig, to suit your taste preferences.

These variations add exciting new dimensions to this classic dish and provide a delicious twist on a familiar favorite. Enjoy experimenting with these flavors to create a memorable meal.

People Frequently Ask Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

You can use bone-in chicken pieces like thighs or drumsticks instead of boneless chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What sides go well with balsamic glazed fried chicken?

Standard sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a grain like quinoa or rice. The choice depends on personal preference.

Is balsamic vinegar the same as a balsamic glaze?

No, they are not the same. Balsamic vinegar is a liquid with a sharp, tangy flavor. In contrast, balsamic glaze reduces balsamic vinegar and other ingredients, resulting in a thicker, sweeter, and more concentrated sauce.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

While frying gives the chicken a crispy texture, you can bake it for a healthier option. Just brush the chicken with oil and bake at a high temperature until it’s cooked, then apply the glaze.

What other variations of balsamic glazed fried chicken can I try?

There are numerous variations, such as using different fruits (strawberries, figs), adding spices (cayenne, Italian herbs), or mixing balsamic vinegar with other sauces like barbecue or honey mustard.