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Blueberry thyme chicken breast on white plate with purple blueberry sauce and fresh thyme garnish

Blueberry Thyme Chicken

Sweet and savory chicken breasts with a gorgeous blueberry thyme sauce, perfect for dinner parties or special weeknight meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6 oz each, about 1-inch thick
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries plus extra for garnish if desired
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • 10 to 12-inch oven-safe skillet
  • Fork for mashing
  • Meat thermometer
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh thyme leaves. As the blueberries begin to cook, gently mash them with a fork until about half are broken down, leaving visible berry pieces for texture. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it becomes thick and jammy. Set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a 10 to 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when it shimmers and moves easily across the pan. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust.
  4. Pour the blueberry sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet. It should sizzle and create an incredible aroma.
  5. Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part. If your chicken breasts are thicker than 1 inch, add 3 to 5 minutes to the baking time.
  6. Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 3 minutes before serving. Serve with extra blueberry sauce drizzled on top and garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme.

Notes

Fresh blueberries work much better than frozen as they hold their shape while creating the perfect sauce texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain them first. The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered pan with a splash of chicken broth or water.