Go Back
cooknblog24@gmail.com

Balsamic Chicken Thighs Recipe

A rich and tangy vegan twist on Balsamic Chicken Thighs—caramelized, flavorful, and beautifully simple with a sweet-savory glaze you’ll crave weekly.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 325
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Vegan “Chicken Thighs”
  • 2 cups seitan or extra-firm tofu thickly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
For the Balsamic Glaze
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ tsp rosemary
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • ¼ cup vegetable broth
For Garnish
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Lemon wedges

Method
 

  1. Prep the “Chicken”: Toss seitan or tofu with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate while you pour a glass of wine.
  2. Sear to Perfection: Heat your skillet on medium-high. Cook each side for 5–6 minutes until golden and crisp. Set aside.
  3. Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, maple syrup, mustard, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and broth until smooth.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour the glaze into the same pan. Stir until it starts to thicken and bubble like liquid gold.
  5. Coat & Caramelize: Return the seitan or tofu to the pan. Toss until each piece shines with tangy-sweet glory.
  6. Serve Like a Star: Garnish with basil and a squeeze of lemon. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies.

Notes

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 325
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 24g

Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Iron: 20%
  • Vitamin C: 15%
  • Calcium: 16%
  • Vitamin A: 12%
  • Magnesium: 14%

Additional Notes/Tips

  • Add a dash of chili flakes for a flirty kick.
  • Use tempeh instead of tofu for a nuttier flavor.
  • Double the glaze—it’s too good not to.
  • Pair with roasted asparagus or quinoa for ultimate balance.
  • Warning: You may lick the pan. Totally acceptable.