Herbed Balsamic Chicken Thighs

with Roasted Red Pepper Salsa

By Kim Knopp, RD | Cleveland Clinic Akron General | Akron, OH

Marinate chicken thighs in an herbed balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard base. Roasted Red Pepper salsa is a side to add moistness to the dish.

Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 30 | Cook Time: 40-50

Calories: 271 | Total Fat: 14g | Total Carbs: 8g | Protein: 25g

Ingredients:

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

½ tsp. black pepper (or freshly ground to taste)

1 tsp. salt

1 tbsp. Dijon mustard

1 tbsp. olive oil

¼ c. balsamic vinegar

1 tbsp. herbs of choice (fresh chopped or dried): basil, thyme and oregano

Instructions:

Salsa:

2-3 red bell peppers

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

10 fresh basil leaves, torn or cut (can substitute 1-2 tbsp. dried basil)

1 tbsp. red wine vinegar

2 tbsp. olive oil

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the garlic, salt, pepper, herbs, mustard, vinegar, and oil. Add the chicken and turn to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes to 2 hours (fine to marinate overnight), turning at least once. Grill or bake the chicken at 375°F for 40-50 minutes, and serve with roasted red pepper salsa on the side (provides moistness).

Salsa: place red peppers on a cookie sheet and broil them, turning often until the skin is charred on all sides (can be grilled instead). Remove the peppers and place in a sealed plastic bag or a covered bowl until the peppers have fully cooled. Core and seed the peppers. Peel the skins from the roasted pepper flesh and discard. Dice the red peppers about ¼ inch and transfer to a glass bowl. Add remaining ingredients and mix well.

Cover and let stand 30 minutes at room temperature to blend flavors (optional). You can make it one day in advance, refrigerate, and bring to room temperature before serving.

Comments:

Both the chicken and the salsa can be prepared in advance of service. Fresh flavors make this dish worth the little bit of effort to prepare! Oozes with good health.