Introduction

Blueberry Thyme Chicken is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The juicy chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and finished with a fresh blueberry and thyme sauce that is both vibrant and comforting.

Three grilled chicken pieces are placed on a white plate, each with a glossy, caramelized brown surface speckled with black pepper. The chicken is topped with fresh green herb sprigs and shiny, dark blue blueberries. Around the chicken pieces, there are extra blueberries sitting in a pool of dark purple-blue sauce that adds a rich contrast to the warm tones of the chicken. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
1 cup fresh blueberries (save a few for garnish if you’re feeling fancy!)
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried in a pinch)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (use the good stuff for searing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, and thyme. Gently smash the blueberries with a fork as the mixture simmers, creating a chunky, jammy sauce. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Step 5: Pour the blueberry sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet. The sauce should sizzle and infuse the meat with flavor.
Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for best results.
Step 7: Let the chicken rest for 3 minutes before serving. Drizzle with extra sauce and garnish with fresh thyme and reserved blueberries for a beautiful presentation.

Tips & Variations

Substitute fresh blueberries with frozen if fresh are not available; just add them straight to the saucepan without thawing.
For extra depth, add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the blueberry sauce while cooking.
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
If you like a little zing, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while simmering.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the texture and flavor, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

How to Serve

A close-up view of three golden brown chicken breasts in a frying pan, each topped with a thick layer of dark purple blueberry sauce. The sauce is rich and glossy, with whole blueberries scattered evenly over the chicken, showing a juicy, textured look. A woman's hand is pouring more of the deep purple sauce from a small glass container above the center chicken piece, adding a fresh layer of sauce that drips smoothly down the sides. The frying pan edges are metallic, contrasting with the cooked chicken's warm tones and the dark sauce. The background surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well too and tend to stay juicier. Adjust the baking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

Is fresh thyme necessary for this recipe?

Fresh thyme is preferred for its bright, aromatic flavor, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch. Use half the amount if substituting dried thyme to avoid overpowering the sauce.