Name: Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Fresh flat-leaf parsley for garnish; 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 fine

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Introduction

Tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a glossy cherry balsamic glaze create an elegant dish that balances sweet and tangy flavors perfectly. This recipe transforms simple chicken into a restaurant-quality meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress.

A close-up photo of a white plate filled with two thick, golden-brown salmon fillets covered in a dark, glossy sauce with whole cherries and small green herb leaves scattered on top. The sauce is rich and shiny with a deep red color and a slightly sticky texture. The salmon looks tender with a crispy outer layer and is placed on a flat white plate centered in the image. The background is a white marbled surface, giving a clean and bright look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
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 fine
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh flat-leaf parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. This forms the flavor foundation, so don’t be shy.
Step 2: 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 the mixture reduces to a glossy glaze that coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Take your time with this step.
Step 3: While the glaze is reducing, heat a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it’s properly hot. This is crucial for getting a golden crust on the chicken.
Step 4: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving them. Flip and cook another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush the cherry balsamic glaze generously onto the chicken. Let it caramelize and get slightly sticky to achieve that beautiful glossy finish.
Step 6: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 3 minutes. Serve immediately, spooning any remaining glaze over the chicken and garnishing with fresh chopped parsley.

Tips & Variations

Use frozen cherries if fresh aren’t available—just thaw and drain them well before use.
If your glaze gets too thick, whisk in a tablespoon of hot water or more balsamic vinegar to thin it out.
For a spicy kick, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the glaze.
Substitute dried cranberries for cherries (use half the amount) for a fall twist.
Add torn fresh basil leaves just before serving for a fresh herb flavor.
Cook chicken thighs instead of breasts, adding 2-3 minutes per side for juicier dark meat.
Skip garlic and add extra honey for a milder, kid-friendly version.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and glaze separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a covered pan with a splash of water, then warm the glaze and spoon it over the chicken. Avoid microwaving the glazed chicken as it can make the coating rubbery.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a piece of cooked salmon topped with a thick, glossy dark red cherry sauce that covers the fish and spills over the sides. Whole cherries are mixed into the sauce, adding texture and shine. Small green herbs are sprinkled on top and around the salmon, adding contrast to the rich dark sauce and the pink-orange salmon. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cherry balsamic glazed chicken ahead of time?

The glaze can be prepared up to three days in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat it gently before use. It’s best to cook the chicken fresh, but you can prep all ingredients earlier in the day for convenience.

What if I can’t find fresh cherries for this glazed chicken?

Frozen cherries work perfectly when thawed and drained. You can also use dried cherries—just reduce the amount by half and add them earlier in the cooking process so they plump up nicely.