Unforgettable Chicken in Cherry Wine Sauce: Your New Favorite Dinner Recipe

Prepare to be utterly charmed by this Chicken in Cherry Wine Sauce – a dish that embodies warmth, comfort, and unexpected elegance. Imagine tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a luscious, vibrant sauce where the sweet tang of fresh cherries dances harmoniously with the deep, fruity notes of Pinot Noir. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a delightful culinary journey that began with a simple twist of fate and blossomed into a truly unforgettable dinner. Perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying, it’s destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, promising to impress with its rich flavors and sophisticated presentation.

Chicken in Cherry Wine Sauce White Plate — Serve this exquisite Chicken in Cherry Wine Sauce over a bed of fluffy rice or delicate noodles for a truly comforting and complete meal.

From Grocery Mishap to Culinary Triumph: The Birth of a Delicious Idea

Life in the kitchen often begins with unexpected twists, and sometimes, the most delightful creations stem from a happy accident. Just the other day, during a routine grocery run, I had what I can only describe as a momentary lapse of grocery aisle clarity. I found myself at home, unpacking my bags, only to discover a bottle of Pinot Noir nestled amongst my purchases. Now, I’m not particularly fond of Pinot Noir on its own, so this was, initially, a significant disappointment. Adding to the grocery cart’s serendipity, I had also impulsively grabbed an enormous bag of fresh, ripe cherries – who can resist the allure of cherries on sale? Certainly not me!

The thought of returning the wine was, to put it mildly, a hassle I was keen to avoid. I detest the inconvenience of returns. So, rather than dwelling on the misstep, my culinary mind began to whir. How could I transform this “rogue” Pinot Noir into something truly special? My eyes landed on the vibrant bag of cherries, and a spark ignited. In a flash, I envisioned combining the wine with the cherries, adding a splash of rich balsamic vinegar, and pairing it all with succulent chicken. Suddenly, a distinct and incredibly appealing flavor profile started to take shape in my imagination. My initial disappointment completely vanished, replaced by an overwhelming excitement to get into the kitchen and bring this nascent idea to life. This dish was destined to be more than just a meal; it was going to be a story.

Unveiling the Flavor Profile: A Symphony of Sweet, Savory, and Spice

The resulting dish, my Chicken in Cherry Wine Sauce, was everything I had hoped for and more. It was profoundly warm and comforting, a truly satisfying meal that felt like a culinary hug. The flavors were incredibly vibrant and dynamic, yet they allowed the natural sweetness and slight tartness of the fresh cherries to truly shine as the star of the show. The Pinot Noir, initially a source of mild frustration, lent a beautiful depth and complexity to the sauce, transforming it into something extraordinary. The balsamic vinegar provided a crucial tangy counterpoint, rounding out the sweetness and adding a sophisticated edge.

One of the beauties of this recipe is its versatility. While the current rendition, with its subtle spices, is perfect for a cozy evening, it can easily be adapted for a lighter, more summery feel. For a brighter dish that evokes sunny days, simply omit the cloves and cinnamon, and instead, enhance the citrus notes with a little more fresh orange zest. This simple adjustment shifts the flavor profile from deeply comforting to refreshingly zesty. Beyond chicken, this incredible cherry wine sauce also pairs wonderfully with other proteins. Imagine it spooned generously over perfectly seared pork chops – a truly amazing alternative that will have your taste buds singing. The possibilities for enjoying this unique and flavorful sauce are endless!

Don’t forget to prepare some fluffy rice or your favorite pasta to soak up every last drop of that incredible, rich cherry wine sauce – or simply grab a spoon and enjoy it straight from the pan!

5 from 1 ratings

Chicken in Cherry Wine Sauce

by
Chef Lindsey

This Chicken in Cherry Wine Sauce is warm and comforting. Spoon it over noodles or rice and sautéed vegetables for the perfect dinner.

Prep:
30 minutes

Cook:
10 minutes

Total:
40 minutes

Servings:
6 people

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Ingredients

▢ 2 chicken breasts boneless & skinless
▢ 2 chicken thighs boneless & skinless
▢ 2 ½ cups fresh sweet cherries halved & pitted
▢ 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
▢ 3 shallots thinly sliced
▢ 1/8 teaspoon cloves
▢ ¼ teaspoon Saigon cinnamon
▢ 1 tablespoon sugar
▢ 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
▢ ½ cup pinot noir wine or a similar fruity red
▢ ¼ teaspoon fresh orange zest
▢ 1 cup low sodium chicken broth bonus points for home made!

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F
Taste your cherries. Mine were moderately sweet. Adjust your sugar accordingly.
Heat a large stainless, ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Melt butter and swirl to coat skillet. Brown chicken on both sides and remove from pan. Loosely tent with aluminum foil and set aside.
Sauté the shallots until they are soft. Stirring frequently. Add the wine, vinegar, cloves, cinnamon, orange zest, and sugar to the pan. Scraping the bottom to remove all the browned bits. Yummy. Bring to a boil and then add chicken broth and cherries. Stir and bring back to a boil. Add the chicken back to the pan and spoon sauce over chicken.
Cook in preheated oven 5-10 minutes or until the chicken is done. Remove chicken from pan and loosely tent. While the chicken rests, reduce the cherry wine sauce to the desired consistency.

Nutrition

Course:
Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine:
American

Calories:
285

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Why This Cherry Wine Sauce is a Game-Changer for Your Dinner Table

What makes this particular cherry wine sauce so exceptional? It’s all about the thoughtful combination and balance of ingredients. The fresh sweet cherries provide a natural burst of fruitiness and a delicate sweetness, which is beautifully amplified by a touch of sugar. This sweetness is expertly cut by the balsamic vinegar, adding a much-needed acidity that brightens the entire dish and prevents it from becoming cloyingly sweet. The Pinot Noir, while not typically a cooking wine I’d grab first, proves to be a fantastic choice here, offering subtle berry notes and a medium body that enriches the sauce without overpowering the cherries. Shallots, milder and sweeter than onions, provide a gentle aromatic base, caramelizing slightly to deepen the overall flavor profile. And then there are the spices: a whisper of cloves and Saigon cinnamon, which introduce a warm, exotic undertone that transforms the sauce from simply fruity to truly complex and intriguing. The fresh orange zest provides a final lift, adding a bright, aromatic top note that ties all the flavors together, making each spoonful a delightful discovery. This layering of sweet, savory, acidic, and aromatic elements is what elevates this sauce to gourmet status.

Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely for the Best Cherry Wine Chicken

To truly make this chicken in cherry wine sauce shine, ingredient selection matters. For the chicken, I recommend using a mix of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs. The breasts offer lean protein, while the thighs provide extra juiciness and flavor, ensuring a tender bite every time. When it comes to cherries, opt for fresh sweet cherries if they are in season – their natural sugar and vibrant color are unparalleled. If fresh aren’t available, frozen pitted sweet cherries can be a good substitute; just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly and don’t over-thaw them before adding to the sauce. For the wine, while Pinot Noir was my accidental choice, any fruity red wine will work well. Look for something not too tannic or oaky, as you want the fruit notes to complement the cherries. A good quality balsamic vinegar makes a noticeable difference; a rich, slightly aged balsamic will add more depth. And for the chicken broth, making your own homemade low-sodium chicken broth (like this recipe) will add unparalleled flavor, but a good store-bought low-sodium option is perfectly acceptable.

Mastering the Technique: Tips for a Perfect Cherry Wine Sauce

Creating this chicken recipe is straightforward, but a few key techniques can elevate your results. First, browning the chicken properly in a hot, ovenproof skillet is crucial. This step creates a beautiful golden crust and, more importantly, leaves behind flavorful “fond” at the bottom of the pan. This fond is gold! When you add the wine and vinegar, be sure to scrape up all those browned bits – this process, known as deglazing, adds immense depth and umami to your sauce. Don’t rush the shallots; sauté them gently until they are soft and translucent to bring out their natural sweetness. When reducing the cherry wine sauce, monitor it closely. You want it to thicken to a syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon, concentrating all those amazing flavors. The final brief bake in the oven ensures the chicken finishes cooking evenly while absorbing the sauce’s rich aromas. Remember to let the chicken rest after removing it from the oven; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist result.

Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings

This main course is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. As mentioned, spooning it over a generous serving of creamy noodles or fluffy rice allows every drop of that exquisite cherry wine sauce to be savored. For a more complete meal, consider adding sautéed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. The bright freshness of vegetables provides a wonderful contrast to the rich sauce. Crusty bread is also a must-have, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. To complete the experience, consider pairing this dish with a glass of the same Pinot Noir used in the recipe, or a similar light-to-medium bodied red wine that complements the fruity and savory notes without overpowering them. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling cider or even a cherry-infused water can be refreshing.

Variations to Explore & Chef’s Notes

Summery Twist: To make this dish lighter for warmer months, simply omit the cloves and cinnamon. Increase the orange zest to ½ teaspoon for an even brighter, more citrusy note. You could also add a handful of fresh basil or mint at the very end for a herbaceous lift.
Other Proteins: As suggested, pork chops are a fantastic alternative. You could also try this sauce with duck breast or even robust white fish like cod or halibut for a lighter option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Spice Adjustments: If you love a bolder spice profile, you can slightly increase the cloves and cinnamon. For a hint of heat, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes would add an exciting kick.
Make-Ahead Tips: The sauce can be made a day in advance and gently reheated. Cook the chicken fresh for the best texture.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Conclusion: Your Next Culinary Adventure Awaits

From a simple grocery store oversight to a triumphant culinary creation, this Chicken in Cherry Wine Sauce recipe is a testament to the magic that can happen in the kitchen. It’s a dish that proves that sometimes, the best recipes are born out of improvisation and a willingness to explore new flavor combinations. With its deeply satisfying taste, beautiful presentation, and comforting essence, it’s more than just a meal – it’s an invitation to savor the moment. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on this delicious journey. I guarantee this will be a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!

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