Grilled Chicken Thighs with Cherry-Balsamic Glaze and Charred Green Beans
Wrap up the week with a grill-out worth savoring! These grilled chicken thighs with cherry-balsamic glaze strike a perfect balance between smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet — ideal for summer evenings. Fresh seasonal cherries are simmered with balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey to create a sticky, flavor-packed glaze that clings beautifully to juicy grilled chicken thighs. On the side, crisp-tender green beans are quickly charred on the grill, adding a smoky bite that compliments the dish perfectly.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
For the Cherry-Balsamic Glaze:1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
For the Charred Green Beans:
1 lb green beans, trimmed
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
1
🍒 Make the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2
Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 8–10 minutes, until cherries soften and glaze thickens slightly.
3
Mash some cherries for texture. Remove from heat and set aside.
4
🔥 Prep and Grill the Chicken:
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5
Rub chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6
Grill chicken 4–6 minutes per side, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
7
During the last 2 minutes, brush with cherry-balsamic glaze on both sides.
8
🥬 Grill the Green Beans:
Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
9
Place in a grill basket or directly on grill grates for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred.
10
Sprinkle with lemon zest before serving, if desired.
11
🍽 Serve:
Plate chicken thighs with a spoonful of extra glaze and a pile of charred green beans.
12
Optional sides: quinoa tabbouleh, grilled corn, or flatbread.
Tags:
#CherryGlaze#EasyGrillRecipes#FridayDinner#GrilledChicken#SeasonalCooking#SummerGrilling#UtahFoodiesChefBryanCookingwithchefbryanKUTV
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