Blackberry chicken is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of fresh blackberries. The tangy blackberry sauce adds a delightful twist to traditional chicken recipes, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is a wonderful way to incorporate the vibrant flavors of blackberries into a savory main course.

The combination of fruit and meat in culinary dishes is not a new concept and has been enjoyed in various cuisines throughout history. The use of berries in savory dishes dates back centuries when cooks discovered the versatility of combining sweet and savory flavors.

Blackberry chicken is a modern twist on this timeless concept, featuring the bold flavors of blackberries paired with succulent chicken. The dish showcases the natural sweetness and vibrant color of blackberries, adding depth and complexity to the sauce.

Blackberries have long been celebrated for their health benefits and their rich antioxidant content. Incorporating them into savory dishes, such as blackberry chicken, provides a unique and delicious way to enjoy their nutritional value.

PREP: 20 MIN.

BAKE: 20 MIN.

MAKES: 6 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons plus ½ cup fresh blackberries, divided
• ½ cup reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¾ teaspoon paprika, divided
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• 6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (5 ounces each)
• 4½ teaspoons minced fresh thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a small bowl, mash 2 tablespoons of fresh blackberries. Add ¼ cup chicken broth, brown sugar, white wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon paprika, and ground cumin. Stir until well combined.
2. Place the boneless skinless chicken breast halves in an 11×7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Pour the blackberry sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is coated. Sprinkle minced fresh thyme, salt, pepper, and remaining paprika over the chicken.
3. Bake the chicken, uncovered, at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reads 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken occasionally with the pan juices.
4. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the baking dish and keep it warm. Skim off any fat from the pan drippings. In a small saucepan, combine cornstarch and the remaining ¼ cup of chicken broth, stirring until smooth. Gradually stir in the pan drippings. Bring the sauce to a boil, then cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened.
5. Serve the chicken with the blackberry sauce spooned over it. Sprinkle the remaining fresh blackberries on top as a garnish.

Blackberry chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory elements of chicken with the sweetness and tanginess of blackberries. The result is a flavorful and visually appealing meal that is sure to impress. Enjoy this unique fusion of flavors and textures in a single, delicious dish.