Description

This dish features succulent chicken pieces, pan-seared to a golden finish, then simmered in a vibrant sauce. The sauce combines the tart sweetness of fresh blackberries with the rich, tangy depth of balsamic vinegar, creating a complex flavor profile. Fresh thyme sprigs infuse an aromatic herbaceous note, complementing the fruit and savory chicken. The chicken emerges tender and coated in a glossy, reduced sauce, offering a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy elements.

Ingredients

* 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
* 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 small shallot, finely diced (optional)
* 2 sprigs fresh thyme

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Instructions

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and diced shallot (if using) to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in the blackberries and honey or maple syrup. Add the fresh thyme sprigs.
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer.
Cover the skillet and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the lid and continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Remove thyme sprigs before serving.

Notes

* For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and reduce the sauce further over medium-high heat.

* Fresh blackberries are ideal, but frozen can be used without thawing.

* Serve this chicken with rice, quinoa, or a side of roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce.

* Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup to taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 380
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 40g