Cherry Chicken
Cherry Chicken combines tender browned chicken with a sweet-tart cherry sauce, infused with warm spices and citrus, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the chicken in margarine for 10 minutes on each side.
- Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper.
- Drain off excess margarine.
- Combine cherry pie filling, white wine, orange juice, brown sugar, salt, and spices in a bowl.
- Pour the cherry sauce mixture over the browned chicken.
- Cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine for browning the chicken. You can substitute the dry white wine with chicken broth or apple juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. To enhance the dish, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry mixture for a warm spice note. If using fresh cherries, pit and slice them, and adjust the sugar according to their sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cherry Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad would complement the dish nicely. For a unique twist, pair it with Pat'S Barbecue Sauce for an unexpected flavor fusion, or browse more American recipes for side dish ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Chicken contains roughly 1199 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1149mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries as a healthier alternative. Just thaw and drain them before adding to the dish. You may need to adjust the sugar based on the cherries' sweetness. Simmer them longer to thicken the sauce, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
What type of wine works best for this recipe?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal, as they add a nice acidity to balance the sweetness of the cherry sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth or a splash of apple juice can be great substitutes for depth of flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can brown the chicken and prepare the cherry sauce in advance. Combine them and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, simply simmer until heated through. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining or busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).