Description
Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish combining the natural sweetness of cherries with the tangy depth of balsamic vinegar, creating a luscious glaze that perfectly coats tender, juicy chicken. Easy to prepare yet elegant, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, delivering a sweet and savory experience in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cherry Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and nearly cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Make the Cherry Balsamic Glaze: In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in fresh cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh herbs. Let the mixture simmer gently, breaking down the cherries slightly to form a thick, luscious glaze.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the cherry balsamic glaze over each piece. Continue cooking together on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and coats the meat beautifully.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes to reabsorb juices. Spoon extra glaze over before serving for that perfect sweet and tangy finish.
Notes
- Use fresh cherries when possible for brightness and natural sweetness.
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Allow the glaze to reduce so it thickens and clings better to the chicken.
- Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their aroma and color.
- Using a cast-iron skillet can help achieve a nice sear and caramelization of the glaze.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with glaze
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chicken, cherry balsamic glaze, balsamic vinegar, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken dinner, sweet and tangy chicken
