Roast Chicken Breasts with Figs, Rosemary & Balsamic
Chicken breast is a lean cut, and keeping it juicy can be a challenge. So I’m happy to share a little kitchen hack I learned from my Chinese friends. I love bringing different flavors together just like this dish: a little Italian comfort, a Chinese restaurant tip, and my Thai heart.This roast chicken with figs, rosemary, and balsamic is simple but special. The figs turn jammy, the rosemary smells amazing, and that quick baking soda brine keeps the chicken tender and juicy every time.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 3-4 cups water enough to cover the chicken
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper to season
- 5-6 small shallots or pearl onions / or 1 medium red onion quartered
- 5-6 fresh figs halved
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or to taste
- Drizzle of honey or maple syrup optional
- Orange zest or fresh herbs optional garnish
- Thaimee Sweet Chili Sauce for serving
Instructions
- Tenderize (Chinese restaurant tip): Soak chicken breasts in water mixed with ½ tsp baking soda for 10 minutes. Rinse well and pat dry.
- Season: Rub the chicken with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare the aromatics & fruit: In a bowl, toss the shallots and figs with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, take the rosemary sprig in your hands and gently rub it to release its aromatic oils before adding it to the bowl. Toss everything lightly to combine.
- Assemble for roasting: Arrange the chicken and the fig mixture in a roasting dish. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar (and honey or maple syrup if using).
- Roast: Roast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the figs are caramelized.
- Rest & Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Spoon the roasted figs, shallots, and balsamic pan juices over the chicken.
Video
Notes
- That quick baking soda brine keeps chicken breast tender and juicy. It is a classic Chinese restaurant trick that works. Make sure you rinse them well and pad dry.
- This recipe also works beautifully with other fruits such as pears, plums, or even berries depending on what’s in season.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, a warm grain and spinach bowl, or Thaimee Sweet Chili Sauce on the side for a sweet-spicy kick.