Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
If cherries are out of season, you can substitute with cherry preserves or even cranberries for a different twist. The balance of these ingredients creates a glaze that clings deliciously to the chicken, making every bite a burst of flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cherries, honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and chili flakes. Stir to combine, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up, and spoon some of the cherry mixture over each thigh.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbling and thick.
- Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. The cherry glaze should be sticky and slightly caramelized.
This method ensures the chicken remains juicy while the glaze develops a rich, sticky consistency. My abuela always said a good dish is like a story, unfolding with every ingredient, and this recipe tells a tale of love and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International