Chicken Thighs With Fresh Plum Agrodolce
Agrodolce, which translates to "bittersweet" in Italian, traditionally refers to a sauce crafted from vinegar and sweeteners like honey or sugar. This modern variation features fresh plums, which contribute a vibrant, sweet-tart flavor, offering an exciting twist to the classic. Combined with sherry vinegar and honey, the plums break down into a beautiful sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender, succulent chicken thighs. This recipe is an effortless yet elegant option, ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and more refined gatherings. Serve it with rice and roasted asparagus for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken thighs (approximately 1¼ pounds)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 large shallot or ½ small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 large red plums pitted and cut into ½-inch wedges
- A pinch of red-pepper flakes
- ⅓ cup sherry vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cold butter either salted or unsalted
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides—about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Avoid flipping the chicken prematurely to ensure it releases naturally from the pan. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- Step 2
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the thinly sliced shallots and plum wedges, seasoning them with salt and a generous pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir occasionally until the shallots soften. Add the sherry vinegar and honey, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, including any accumulated juices, and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
- Step 3
- Transfer the chicken thighs to a serving plate and pour the plum sauce over the top. Stir in the cold butter into the sauce, whisking until smooth and glossy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning, if necessary, before serving.