Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken

Highlighted under: Nutritious & Delicious Meals

This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

Ella

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-08T16:33:28.174Z

Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a dish that brings together the richness of balsamic vinegar and the sweetness of cherries, creating a sauce that is both savory and delicious. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also impressive enough to serve at gatherings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
  • A beautiful glaze that makes the dish visually stunning.
  • Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights.

A Flavorful Fusion

The combination of cherries and balsamic vinegar creates a unique flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. Cherries bring a natural sweetness and a touch of tartness, while balsamic vinegar adds a complex depth that elevates the dish. This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is not just a meal; it's an experience that showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

This recipe stands out for its ability to balance sweet and savory notes. The honey enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries, while the acidity of balsamic vinegar cuts through and complements the richness of the chicken. When cooked together, they form a luscious glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a family gathering, planning a date night, or simply want to treat yourself after a long day, this Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is the ideal choice. Its elegant presentation makes it suitable for special occasions, while its quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights. It's a dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a complete meal that delights the senses. The vibrant colors and rich flavors make it not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight for the eyes, ensuring that it will be a hit with everyone at the table.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best flavor, it's essential to use fresh, ripe cherries. They provide the sweetest and most vibrant flavor, enhancing the overall dish. If cherries are out of season, you can substitute with frozen cherries, but be sure to thaw and drain them before use to avoid excess moisture in your glaze.

Don’t rush the searing process; getting a nice golden-brown crust on the chicken is key to locking in moisture and flavor. Additionally, letting the glaze simmer until thickened not only intensifies the flavor but also ensures it adheres beautifully to the chicken, creating a luscious coating.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this flavorful dish:

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Glaze

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add cherries, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve the chicken garnished with fresh thyme.

Enjoy your delicious Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken with your favorite side dish!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken, storing them properly can help maintain their delicious flavor. Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent the chicken from drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the glazed chicken. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This method helps preserve the unique flavors of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious glaze. For a lighter option, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully, adding a peppery crunch that contrasts nicely with the sweet chicken.

For wine lovers, a glass of Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc would enhance the meal. These wines' fruity and acidic notes mirror the dish's flavor profile, making for a well-rounded dining experience that your guests will remember.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

→ What can I serve with Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze in advance and cook the chicken when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken

This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Ella

Recipe Type: Nutritious & Delicious Meals

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  3. 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  4. 2 tablespoons honey
  5. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. Fresh thyme for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 03

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add cherries, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Step 04

Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the glaze. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve the chicken garnished with fresh thyme.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 22g
  • Protein: 28g