If you're looking to impress your family or guests with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and elegance, look no further than Sautéed Chicken with Cherries! This delightful American recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with the sweet-tart goodness of fresh cherries, creating a mouthwatering experience that's perfect for any occasion. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a gourmet meal that will have everyone asking for seconds—and wondering how you pulled it off! Dive into our recipe and discover the secrets to this stunning dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and golden-brown exterior.
- Season chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt and black pepper, pressing the seasoning gently into the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and appears slightly rippling.
- Carefully place chicken breasts in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-6 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Flip chicken breasts and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from skillet and transfer to a plate. Tent loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add pitted fresh cherries and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Pour in chicken broth and balsamic vinegar, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
- Simmer the cherry sauce for 3-4 minutes until it slightly reduces and becomes slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spooning the cherry sauce over the meat to reheat and coat.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the chicken and sauce just before serving.
- Plate the chicken, garnish with additional fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Bring Chicken to Room Temperature: Before cooking, let the chicken breasts sit out for about 30 minutes. This helps them cook evenly, ensuring a juicy and tender result.
- Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear and a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Season both sides of the chicken evenly and press the seasoning into the meat for maximum flavor.
- Monitor the Heat: When heating the olive oil, look for a shimmering surface before adding the chicken. This indicates that the oil is hot enough to create a nice sear.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Utilize the Skillet: After cooking the chicken, make the cherry sauce in the same skillet. This not only saves on dishes but also incorporates all the delicious browned bits from the chicken for added flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh cherries and basil will elevate your dish, providing vibrant flavors that frozen or dried ingredients simply can’t match.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh basil just before serving adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor, making your dish look as good as it tastes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 235kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 31g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
