Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken

Name: Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved; 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken, a delightful dish that brings a gourmet touch to your dinner table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-08T16:09:28.424Z

This Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is not just a meal; it's an experience. The combination of succulent chicken thighs with a rich cherry balsamic glaze creates a dish that is both savory and sweet. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and tangy glaze that enhances the chicken's flavor
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
Perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties

      

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that beautifully balances sweet and savory notes. The tartness of fresh cherries combined with the rich, tangy balsamic vinegar creates a glaze that elevates the humble chicken thighs to gourmet status. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a delectable choice for any occasion.

This dish not only pleases the palate but also adds visual appeal to your dinner table. The deep red hues of the cherry glaze against the golden-brown chicken thighs create an inviting presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

Simplicity Meets Elegance

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fine dining restaurant. The ease of preparation makes it an excellent option for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.

In just a short amount of time, you can have a stunning meal ready to serve. This is particularly advantageous for busy weeknights or for entertaining guests without the stress of complicated cooking techniques.

Versatile Serving Suggestions

Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. The versatility of this dish allows it to complement many different flavors and textures, making it suitable for any meal occasion.

For a more casual dining experience, serve the glazed chicken on a bed of rice or quinoa. The glaze enhances the grains, making for a hearty and fulfilling meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cherry Balsamic Glaze

1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Make sure to use fresh cherries for the best flavor in your glaze!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan, combine the cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the glaze thickens, about 10 minutes.

Combine and Cook

Pour the cherry balsamic glaze over the seared chicken in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve drizzled with the extra glaze and enjoy!

Pair with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Tips for the Best Results

For optimal flavor, consider using ripe, in-season cherries. Fresh cherries bring a vibrant taste that frozen alternatives may lack. If fresh cherries are out of season, look for high-quality frozen ones that are pitted and ready to use.

Don't skip the resting time after cooking. Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. This small step can make a significant difference in the final dish.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for enjoying as leftovers the next day.

When reheating, do so gently to preserve the moisture of the chicken. A quick reheat in the microwave or a warm-up in a skillet over low heat will help maintain the glaze's sticky consistency without drying out the chicken.

Pairing Wine Suggestions

The sweet and tangy flavors of Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken call for a wine that can complement its richness. A light to medium-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing the fruitiness of the cherries.

For white wine lovers, consider a crisp Chardonnay or a lightly sweet Riesling. These options will balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar while highlighting the dish’s delectable flavors, making your meal even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but fresh cherries are recommended for the best flavor.

→ What can I serve with Cherry Balsamic Glazed Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Yes, but chicken breasts may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.