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Sliced blueberry thyme chicken breast topped with glossy blueberry balsamic sauce and fresh thyme

Blueberry Thyme Chicken

Juicy chicken breasts marinated in a sweet honey balsamic blueberry sauce with fresh thyme and garlic, seared until golden, then baked to perfection in one skillet.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts similar in size for even cooking
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 2 tbsp olive oil plus a small drizzle for searing
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme chopped, or 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Large resealable bag
  • Instant read meat thermometer
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, honey, thyme, garlic, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well until fully blended.
  2. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries without smashing them.
  3. Place chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and coat well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
  4. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  5. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with a small drizzle of olive oil. Remove chicken from marinade and reserve the marinade and blueberries. Sear chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Do not move the chicken during searing.
  6. Pour the reserved marinade and blueberries over the seared chicken in the skillet.
  7. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
  8. Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  9. Slice the chicken and spoon the blueberry sauce generously over the top before serving.

Notes

Fresh blueberries give the best texture and flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. Always rest the chicken before slicing to keep it juicy. Chicken thighs can be substituted for a richer result. Reduce baking time to 12 to 15 minutes if using thighs.