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Melty Blackberry Jalapeño Chicken

A delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors featuring stuffed chicken breasts with blackberries, jalapeños, and melted cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Chicken Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup fresh blackberries Fresh blackberries = brighter sauce.
  • 1 piece jalapeño, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 1 cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese, sliced or shredded Use unsalted butter to control salt.
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Season inside and out with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. Stuff each pocket with a few blackberries, jalapeño slices, and some cheese; secure with toothpicks if needed.
Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden.
  2. Mash a couple extra blackberries with a fork to loosen into the sauce.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and pour in chicken broth, honey, balsamic vinegar, and butter. Stir and let the butter melt.
  4. Cover and simmer 10–12 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F and cheese has melted.
  5. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped herbs before serving.

Notes

Use pre-sliced cheese and pre-washed berries for a quicker prep. For variations, swap smoked paprika with chili powder.