What can I substitute for bone-in chicken thighs?

If you prefer boneless chicken, boneless, skinless thighs or breasts can be used. Just be mindful of cooking times, as boneless cuts will cook faster.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the sauce to avoid excess moisture.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To make the dish spicier, add more jalapeño or use a hotter variety of chili pepper. For a milder version, simply omit the jalapeño or use a small amount for a subtle heat.

Incredible Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Description

Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs are a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with juicy chicken thighs and a rich cherry glaze.

Ingredients

6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for coating the pan
1 small shallot, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, minced
8 oz sweet cherries, stemmed, pitted, and halved
3-4 tbsp honey, depending on desired sweetness
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
3 scallions, thinly sliced
1 handful torn fresh mint
1 handful torn fresh cilantro leaves
1 jalapeño, very thinly sliced

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add chicken thighs, skin-side down. Cook for 12-14 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
Flip the chicken and cook on the second side for 2 minutes.
Transfer the chicken to a sheet tray and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 180-185°F (82-85°C).
In the same skillet, add shallots, garlic, and ginger over medium-low heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Increase the heat to medium and add cherries, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cherries soften.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices from the sheet tray. Toss to coat the chicken in the cherry sauce.
In a small bowl, toss together scallions, mint, cilantro, and jalapeño to create the herb salad.
Plate the chicken on a platter and top with the cherry sauce and herb salad.

Notes

Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more honey, if desired.
For extra crispy chicken skin, press down gently while cooking the thighs.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing, Baking
Cuisine: American