Description
Delight in tender boneless chicken breasts glazed with a luscious cherry balsamic sauce that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. This easy-to-make chicken dish starts with a savory sear on the stovetop, followed by baking in a rich cherry-berry and honey reduction, creating an elegant meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cherry Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken after searing.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper evenly.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown, developing flavor and texture.
- Remove Chicken: Remove the seared chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
- Prepare Cherry Glaze: Add cherries, balsamic vinegar, and honey into the skillet with the garlic. Stir and cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly into a rich glaze.
- Combine Chicken and Glaze: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the cherry balsamic glaze over the chicken to coat thoroughly.
- Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest Chicken: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired, and serve warm with the cherry balsamic glaze spooned over the top.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cherries depending on availability; if using frozen, thaw before cooking for best results.
- Ensure the skillet is oven-safe to avoid damage during baking.
- For a deeper flavor, marinate chicken breasts in balsamic vinegar and honey mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper after cooking to taste.
- If cherries are tart, add a bit more honey to balance the flavors.
