What goes well with sticky cherry chicken thighs?

Sticky cherry chicken thighs pair beautifully with mild sides like jasmine rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. For something special, try it with carrot ribbon salad or creamy kielbasa broccoli skillet .

Can I make sticky cherry chicken thighs ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can sear and bake the chicken ahead of time, and even prep the cherry glaze in advance. Store everything separately and reheat gently before combining and serving.

How do I make the cherry sauce thick and sticky?

To make the glaze thick and sticky, reduce it over medium heat and gently smash the cherries with a spoon. The natural sugars and honey will caramelize slightly, giving the sauce its signature texture.

Can I use frozen cherries for sticky cherry chicken thighs?

Yes! Frozen cherries work great. Thaw them and drain any excess liquid before adding them to your pan. The flavor will still shine through, especially when paired with bold ingredients like soy sauce and ginger.

Sticky Cherry Chicken Thighs – 5 Ultimate Flavor Secrets

Description

Sticky cherry chicken thighs with a sweet-savory cherry glaze, crispy golden skin, and fresh herbs. Quick, flavorful, and perfect year-round.

Ingredients

Scale

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small shallot, minced

1 garlic clove, minced

1-inch piece ginger, minced

8 oz sweet cherries (fresh or frozen), pitted and halved

3–4 tbsp honey

2 tbsp soy sauce

2 tbsp rice vinegar

3 scallions, thinly sliced

1 handful fresh mint leaves, torn

1 handful fresh cilantro leaves, torn

1 jalapeño, thinly sliced

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.

2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 12–14 minutes until golden. Flip and cook 2 minutes more.

4. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until internal temp reaches 180–185°F.

5. In the same skillet, sauté shallot, garlic, and ginger for 2–3 minutes.

6. Add cherries, honey, soy sauce, and vinegar. Simmer, gently smashing cherries until sauce is thick and sticky.

7. Return chicken to skillet with any pan juices and coat in cherry glaze.

8. Top with scallions, mint, cilantro, and jalapeño. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use frozen cherries if fresh aren’t available—just thaw and drain first.

Adjust sweetness by using less honey if cherries are very ripe.

Delicious served with jasmine rice, roasted sweet potatoes, or a crisp salad.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet + Oven
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 thigh with sauce
Calories: 410
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 510mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 110mg