Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Recipes
Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet cherries and tangy balsamic vinegar in this easy-to-make chicken dish.
This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors! The sweetness of cherries perfectly complements the balsamic glaze, making it a dish that impresses at any dinner table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Sweet and tangy glaze that elevates the chicken
- Juicy and tender chicken that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions
A Flavorful Fusion
Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a dish that beautifully marries sweet and savory flavors. The natural sweetness of cherries pairs perfectly with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar, creating a glaze that enhances the chicken's juiciness. This simple yet sophisticated combination brings an exciting twist to an everyday meal, making it suitable for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings.
The use of fresh or frozen cherries ensures that you can enjoy this delightful dish year-round. When cherries are in season, their vibrant color and flavor truly shine, making the glaze even more irresistible. If cherries are out of season, frozen ones work just as well, allowing you to recreate this delicious dish whenever you crave it.
Cooking Made Easy
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a gourmet meal in less than 30 minutes. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights when time is short but a satisfying meal is still desired. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on enjoying the cooking process and the delicious outcome.
Additionally, the one-skillet method keeps cleanup to a minimum, making this recipe not only quick to prepare but also easy to clean up afterward. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, you’ll appreciate the straightforward approach to preparing this flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a light and refreshing option, serve it alongside a mixed green salad tossed with nuts and feta cheese. Alternatively, roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes complement the dish beautifully, soaking up the delicious glaze.
If you're looking for a grain-based side, consider quinoa or couscous, which provide a lovely texture contrast. These sides not only enhance the meal but also make it more filling, ideal for hungry diners. No matter how you choose to serve it, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cherry Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Glaze
In the same skillet, add the cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the glaze over the top, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with extra glaze if desired.
Nutrition Highlights
This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken breast is a lean protein source that helps build and repair tissues, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. The addition of cherries offers antioxidants and vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
Moreover, balsamic vinegar is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and providing anti-inflammatory properties. Combining these ingredients creates a meal that is as nutritious as it is tasty, making it a wonderful addition to your regular meal rotation.
Storing and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers of this delectable dish, storing them is easy. Place the chicken and any remaining glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors again without any extra cooking effort.
When it’s time to reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional glaze to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to avoid drying out the chicken. With these tips, you can savor the deliciousness of Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken even after the first serving!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe!
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet cherries and tangy balsamic vinegar in this easy-to-make chicken dish.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Fast Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cherry Balsamic Glaze
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the glaze over the top, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with extra glaze if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 30g