Plated in Season

A Burst of Summer: Sweet & Savory Chicken with Cherry Salsa!

As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s nothing quite like celebrating the bounty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. This time of year, my kitchen is buzzing with vibrant colors and incredible flavors, and today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that perfectly encapsulates that summer feeling: Grilled or Pan-Seared Chicken with a Zesty Cherry Salsa and Fresh Microgreens.

This dish is all about balance – the savory kick of seasoned chicken, the surprising sweetness and tang of the cherry salsa, and the bright, herbaceous notes of cilantro. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but feels special enough for a casual gathering.

Why Seasonal Cherries?

Right now, cherries are at their absolute peak! Their sweet-tart flavor is truly unbeatable, and they add such a beautiful pop of color and freshness to any dish. While we often think of cherries in desserts, their acidity and sweetness make them a fantastic complement to savory proteins, especially chicken or pork

The Star of the Show: Cherry Salsa

Forget traditional tomato salsa and prepare to be amazed by this vibrant alternative that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

Cherry Salsa Ingredients:

 * 1 cup fresh cherries (pitted and cut in half)

 * 1/2 jalapeño pepper, diced (remove seeds for less heat)

 * 1/4 red or white onion, diced

 * 1/4 cup fresh squeezed orange juice

Instructions:

Simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl. Give it a gentle stir and let the flavors meld for about 10-15 minutes. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop.

Assembling Your Summer Plate

For the Chicken:

 * Take a chicken cutlet (breast or thigh, your preference!) and season it generously with your favorite Mexican seasoning blend. Think cumin, chili powder, paprika, and a touch of oregano.

 * Grill it: If you have a grill, the smoky char adds another layer of deliciousness. Cook until tender and cooked through.

 * Pan-Sear it: If grilling isn’t a possibility, a hot skillet with a little olive oil works beautifully. Cook until golden brown and cooked through.

Bringing it All Together:

Once your chicken is ready, place it on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of that incredible cherry salsa over the top.

Now for the green finish! Cilantro microgreens are fantastic here – their delicate texture and intense cilantro flavor are a perfect match. If you cannot find microgreens, simply chop some fresh cilantro and mix it directly into your cherry salsa.

Finally, a squeeze of fresh lime over the entire dish brightens everything up and ties all the flavors together with a refreshing zest.

The Fresh Taste Experience

Every bite of this dish is a celebration of fresh flavors. The juicy chicken, the sweet and spicy salsa, the earthy cilantro, and the bright lime create a harmonious symphony on your palate. It’s light, satisfying, and bursting with the taste of summer.

So, head to your local market, grab some beautiful fresh cherries, and give this recipe a try. You won’t regret bringing this taste of the season to your table!

Enjoy!