Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs
Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs are a delectable blend of sweet and savory that will elevate your dining experience. Juicy chicken thighs are enveloped in a rich cherry glaze, caramelizing beautifully during cooking. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for impressing guests at gatherings or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Serve it over rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy.
- Author: Jennifer
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- 4–6 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine pitted cherries, brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Mix well.
- Pat dry chicken thighs and drizzle with olive oil, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Sear each thigh skin-side down in a hot skillet for about 5 minutes until golden brown; flip and sear for another minute.
- Place the seared chicken in the prepared baking dish and pour the cherry mixture over them evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (150g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For an extra flavor twist, substitute cherries with apricots or peaches. Add cayenne pepper for heat or use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweet note. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.