Pomegranate Glazed Chicken with a Walnut Crunch
This dish combines the succulent flavors of chicken with a sweet and tangy pomegranate glaze, finished with a satisfying walnut crunch. It's a delightful blend of textures and flavors that highlight the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Equipment
- Oven-safe skillet
- Small saucepan
- Small pan
- Pastry brush
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 2 pounds / 900g
- 1 tsp salt 5g
- 1/2 tsp black pepper 2g
- 2 tbsp olive oil 30ml
For the Pomegranate Glaze
- 1 cup pomegranate juice 240ml
- 2 tbsp honey 30ml
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 15ml
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1g
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes 0.5g
For the Walnut Crunch
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped 60g
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter 15g
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, and reduce by half until thick and syrupy, approximately 10-15 minutes.
- Brush the chicken with the pomegranate glaze, reserving some for serving.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the chicken for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is baking, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and a pinch of salt. Toast them until they are golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with the toasted walnut crunch.
- Drizzle the remaining pomegranate glaze over the chicken before serving.
Notes
The pomegranate glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds based on preference or availability.
The chicken can also be grilled for a smokier flavor.