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Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken Recipe

Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken Recipe

5.2 from 11 reviews

This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in a glossy cherry and balsamic vinegar glaze. It’s an elegant yet simple dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, garnished with fresh parsley for a professional touch.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Glaze

  • 1 cup fresh or thawed frozen cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1/4 cup good-quality balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced finely

Garnish

  • Fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried thyme. This seasoning base enhances the flavor of the chicken and complements the glaze.
  2. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium saucepan, combine the halved cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries soften and release their juices and the mixture reduces into a glossy glaze that coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. This slow reduction intensifies the flavors.
  3. Heat the Pan: While the glaze is reducing, preheat a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. This ensures a beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot pan and cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes on the first side, allowing a crust to form. Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) confirming doneness.
  5. Glaze the Chicken: During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush the cherry balsamic glaze generously over the chicken breasts. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that elevates the dish.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 3 minutes to retain juices. Serve immediately with any remaining glaze spooned over the top and garnish with freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley for a professional presentation.

Notes

  • Use good-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor and glaze consistency.
  • Frozen cherries can be used if fresh are not available; just make sure to thaw and pit them first.
  • Cooking chicken to the proper internal temperature of 165°F ensures safety and juiciness.
  • Allow resting time after cooking to keep the chicken moist.
  • This glaze can also be used on pork or duck for an alternative protein option.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken recipe, cherry balsamic glaze, healthy chicken dinner, easy chicken recipes, summer chicken dish