Cherry Balsamic Chicken
This Cherry Balsamic Chicken is one of those one-skillet meals that feels fancy enough for company but is simple enough for a weeknight. Juicy chicken thighs are seared until golden, then nestled into a glossy cherry balsamic glaze that’s been simmered with garlic and fresh oregano. The cherries add a burst of sweetness, the balsamic brings a tangy depth, and everything comes together in the oven for hands-off cooking while your kitchen smells amazing.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, or small chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh cherries
- 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano or similar herb
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ tsp ground pepper
Instructions
- First, preheat the oven to 400.
- Prep your cherries by pitting them and cutting them in half.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps ensure a golden, crisp sear. Then, season well with salt and pepper.
- Get a cast iron skillet hot, then pour in a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add the chicken thighs. Let them cook for about 4 minutes, until golden brown. Flip, and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside (you will finish cooking them with the glaze in the oven shortly.)
- To the pan, add minced garlic and chopped oregano or your preferred fresh herb. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and honey.
- To the skillet, add in the cherries, and the balsamic mixture and cook over medium heat until the cherries have released their juices, about 10 minutes.
- Add the chicken thighs back to the pan, and spoon over the cherry balsamic glaze.
- Place the skillet in the oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and a thermometer shows 165 degrees.
- Serve alongside rice or your preferred grain, a light salad, or serve with crusty bread for soaking up the glaze!