Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes
Delight in the tangy sweetness of Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken, a dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table.
Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a perfect combination of savory and sweet. The juicy chicken thighs are coated in a luscious cherry balsamic glaze that elevates this dish to a new level of deliciousness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and tangy glaze that enhances the chicken's flavor
- Juicy chicken that stays tender and moist
- Quick and easy to prepare for any night of the week
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a delightful marriage of sweet and savory flavors that tantalize your taste buds. The natural sweetness of cherries combined with the rich, tangy essence of balsamic vinegar creates a glaze that enhances the chicken's flavor without overpowering it. This balance makes it an irresistible dish that can impress guests or satisfy a craving for a comforting meal at home.
The addition of honey brings a subtle sweetness that complements the tartness of the cherries, creating a symphony of flavors. Meanwhile, the garlic and fresh rosemary add depth and aromatic nuances, transforming a simple chicken dish into a culinary experience. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that harmonize beautifully.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
One of the standout features of this Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken recipe is its simplicity. Busy weeknights often leave little room for elaborate meals, but this dish can be prepared and on the table in under 40 minutes. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll have a delicious dinner ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
Even novice cooks can master this recipe quickly. The searing technique ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender, while the glaze adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire meal. Pair it with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner that feels gourmet.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation. Serve it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the delicious glaze. Alternatively, a light quinoa salad or steamed green beans can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the chicken.
For a complete meal, consider incorporating a fruity salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and feta cheese. The sweetness of the cherries in the glaze will resonate with the salad’s flavors, creating a cohesive dining experience. Don’t forget to drizzle extra glaze over your sides for an added punch of flavor!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Cherry Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and rosemary. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
Glaze the Chicken
Once the chicken is browned, pour the cherry balsamic glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve
Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with the remaining glaze.
Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Leftover Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be cautious to avoid drying it out.
If you want to preserve the glaze, store it separately in a small container. It can be drizzled over the chicken again when reheating, ensuring that the flavors remain vibrant. For longer storage, consider freezing the glazed chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Health Benefits
This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. They also contain vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium, which support overall health.
The addition of cherries introduces antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Balsamic vinegar has been linked to digestive health and may help regulate blood sugar levels. Together, these components create a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
→ Is it necessary to use fresh cherries?
Fresh cherries are ideal for the best flavor, but frozen cherries work well too.
→ Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The glaze can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ What can I serve with Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Delight in the tangy sweetness of Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken, a dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Cherry Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
How-To Steps
Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and rosemary. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
Once the chicken is browned, pour the cherry balsamic glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with the remaining glaze.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 20g