Cherry Blossom Chicken Recipe
A fresh and comforting Cherry Blossom Chicken Recipe featuring tender chicken, cherries, garlic, butter, and herbs in a glossy sauce.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup cherries pitted (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce for extra umami
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
- Red pepper flakes for gentle heat
Instructions
Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt and black pepper. This step ensures a good sear and locks in flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Sear Until Golden
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside — the chicken will finish cooking later.
Step 3: Build the Cherry Blossom Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and add garlic to the same pan. Stir just until fragrant, then add cherries, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Scrape up the browned bits — that’s pure flavor.
Step 4: Simmer and Reduce
- Let the sauce gently simmer for 5–7 minutes until the cherries soften and the liquid thickens slightly. The aroma should be sweet, savory, and lightly tangy.
Step 5: Return Chicken to the Pan
- Nestle the chicken back into the sauce. Spoon the glaze over the top, cover, and simmer for another 6–8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add herbs, lemon zest, or chili flakes if using. The sauce should coat the chicken in a glossy, fragrant glaze.