Indulge your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic dish—Grilled Honey Chicken with Cherry Sauce! This mouthwatering recipe combines the succulent flavors of perfectly grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy cherry sauce that will leave you craving more. In just 35 minutes, you can create a culinary masterpiece that’s not only easy to prepare but also impressively delicious. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Ready to elevate your grilling game? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 cup cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a good sear when grilling.
- In a small bowl, combine the honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended. This will serve as your marinade and glaze for the chicken.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the honey mixture over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have more time.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the cherry sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the pitted and halved cherries. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add a splash of water to the saucepan if the cherries start to stick. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the cherries are juicy and have released some of their natural sugars.
- Once the cherries have softened, reduce the heat to low and let them simmer. If desired, you can add a bit more balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Stir occasionally and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 5-10 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- While the chicken is resting, give the cherry sauce a final stir. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend it with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until it reaches your desired consistency.
- To serve, slice the grilled chicken breasts and drizzle the cherry sauce over the top. You can also serve additional sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Grilled Honey Chicken with Cherry Sauce!
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or even overnight if you can. This allows the honey and balsamic vinegar to penetrate the meat, enhancing its flavor and tenderness.
- Use Fresh Cherries: If possible, opt for fresh cherries for the sauce. They provide a vibrant flavor that frozen cherries may lack. If fresh isn't available, frozen cherries can work in a pinch—just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
- Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and ensures even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. This will help you avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This step is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
- Blend for Smooth Sauce: If you prefer a smoother cherry sauce, blend it after cooking. This can add a gourmet touch to your dish and make it easier to drizzle over the chicken.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Grilled Honey Chicken with Cherry Sauce with sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 105mg
