Ingredients
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
If you’re out of fresh cherries, don’t worry! You can substitute with cherry preserves or canned cherries, adjusting the sweetness as needed. The versatility of this recipe is part of its charm, making it adaptable to what you have on hand.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is essential for achieving crispy skin on the chicken thighs.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the mixture starts to simmer, about 5 minutes. This is when the magic happens, as the cherries release their juices and mingle with the vinegar and honey.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the cherry mixture simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
- While the sauce is simmering, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until the skin is golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip the thighs and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes.
- Pour the cherry glaze over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the sauce is bubbling and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a touch of green and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International