5 Chicken Recipes Featuring Brussels Sprouts

Exploring the world of culinary delights often leads us to unique pairings that surprise and delight the palate. Chicken and Brussels sprouts are two ingredients that might not initially seem like a match made in heaven, but when combined, they offer a harmonious blend of flavors that are both comforting and gourmet. Here are five delectable chicken recipes featuring Brussels sprouts that will elevate your dining experience:

1. Chicken with Honey Garlic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients: - 4 skin-on chicken thighs - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 3 tablespoons honey - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken skin side down until golden, about 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add Brussels sprouts, cut side down, and cook until they start to brown, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Pour this mixture over the Brussels sprouts, stirring to coat.
5. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized.

🔔 Note: The combination of honey and soy sauce not only flavors the chicken and Brussels sprouts but also creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

2. Grilled Chicken and Brussels Sprout Skewers

Ingredients: - 2 chicken breasts, cubed - 16 Brussels sprouts - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Juice of 1 lemon - 2 teaspoons dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Blanch the Brussels sprouts in boiling salted water for 3 minutes, then plunge into ice water to cool. This pre-cooking step helps ensure they are tender but not overcooked when grilled.
3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper for the marinade.
4. Thread chicken and Brussels sprouts alternately onto the skewers. Brush with the marinade.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked and has nice grill marks, about 12-15 minutes.

🔔 Note: Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the Brussels sprouts, complementing the charred edges of the chicken for a summery, rustic dish.

3. Chicken and Brussels Sprouts in a Creamy Mustard Sauce

Ingredients: - 4 chicken breast fillets - Salt and pepper - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 pound Brussels sprouts, quartered - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Fresh thyme leaves

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through, about 6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add Brussels sprouts and cook until they start to brown, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in Dijon mustard, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let the sauce thicken for a few minutes.
4. Add the chicken back into the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over it. Simmer for 5 more minutes to let flavors meld.

4. Baked Chicken with Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients: - 6 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on - 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved - 3 tablespoons olive oil - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Season chicken thighs similarly with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder.
4. Arrange the Brussels sprouts in a single layer in a large baking dish. Place the chicken thighs on top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is crispy on top and cooked through, with the Brussels sprouts tender and slightly crispy.

🔔 Note: The Parmesan adds a delightful crunch to the Brussels sprouts, making this dish a favorite for those who appreciate a bit of texture contrast.

5. Lemon Herb Chicken with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients: - 4 chicken leg quarters - 2 lemons, one sliced, one juiced - ¹⁄₃ cup olive oil - 2 teaspoons dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and Brussels sprouts, tossing to coat.
3. Spread the chicken and Brussels sprouts in a roasting pan. Lay lemon slices over the chicken for extra flavor.
4. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and juices run clear. Baste occasionally with the pan juices for maximum flavor.

As we wrap up our culinary journey through these five exquisite chicken and Brussels sprouts recipes, it’s evident that these ingredients together can offer something for every palate, from the simplicity of grilled skewers to the sophistication of creamy mustard sauce. Each dish highlights the versatility of chicken, paired with the unique, often underestimated, Brussels sprout, creating meals that are both nutritious and indulgent. Whether it’s the caramelized honey glaze, the smoky notes from grilling, or the comforting warmth of a creamy sauce, these recipes can transform your everyday dinner into a special occasion, showing that even the most unexpected pairings can lead to delightful surprises on the plate.

Can I substitute Brussels sprouts with another vegetable?

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Yes, you can replace Brussels sprouts with similar greens like broccoli or cauliflower. Adjust cooking times based on the vegetable’s texture for best results.

What side dishes pair well with these chicken recipes?

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Potato mash, rice pilaf, roasted root vegetables, or a simple salad would complement the rich flavors of these chicken dishes nicely.

How do I ensure the Brussels sprouts are cooked evenly?

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Cut Brussels sprouts uniformly to ensure even cooking. Additionally, using high heat initially helps to caramelize the outer leaves quickly, while the insides remain tender.