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Sweet & Savory Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs

Looking for a fun and delicious way to spice up your chicken dinner? Sweet & Savory Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs could be just what you need! This delightful dish brings together juicy chicken thighs and sweet cherries for a mouthwatering meal the whole family will love. The sticky glaze makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to prepare. The combination of sweet and savory flavors gives it a unique twist that stands out from typical chicken dishes. Plus, using cherry preserves and fresh cherries creates a rich sauce that perfectly complements the chicken. It’s a great way to impress your guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home.

How to Make Sweet & Savory Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries
1/2 cup cherry preserves
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Place them skin-side down in the skillet and cook until golden and crispy for about 6-8 minutes. Flip and cook for another 4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, stir in fresh cherries, cherry preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Simmer gently, mashing some cherries with a spoon to release their juices. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, which will take about 5 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon the glaze over the chicken. Cover and simmer on low for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove the lid and cook a few more minutes to get an extra sticky glaze. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.
Pair it with rice, roasted veggies, or a salad to make it a complete meal.

How to Serve Sweet & Savory Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs

Sweet & Savory Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs are best served hot straight from the pan. They pair wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors of the dish. Do not forget to drizzle extra sauce over the chicken for that sweet, sticky goodness!

How to Store Sweet & Savory Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Tips to Make Sweet & Savory Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs

For the best texture, don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken.
Use fresh cherries when they’re in season for the sweetest flavor.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding different fruits like pineapple or peaches for a fruity twist. If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat!

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. Just reduce the cooking time since they cook faster than bone-in thighs.

2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the chicken in a skillet first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

3. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish goes well with rice, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad. You can choose your favorite side for a complete meal.