Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken

For those evenings when you crave something sweet yet spicy, the Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken recipe is the perfect solution. This dish combines the unique flavor of Cheerwine, a cherry-flavored soda, with savory ingredients to create a mouthwatering glaze that clings beautifully to tender chicken breast. The balance of sweetness and heat will keep your taste buds dancing and your family coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Not only does Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken deliver a delightful explosion of flavors, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. The versatility of this recipe allows it to shine at gatherings, BBQs, or even as a comforting family meal. Plus, the leftovers are just as good (if not better) the next day, making it a smart choice for busy lives.

Ingredient Checklist

To whip up this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken breast
• 1 cup Cheerwine
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup Cheerwine (for the glaze)
• 1 cup soy sauce (for the glaze)
• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup dark Karo syrup
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic (for the glaze)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (for the glaze)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for the glaze)
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (for the glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (for the glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for the glaze)

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you get started, make sure you have these tools handy:

• Mixing bowls – For marinating and combining ingredients.
• Whisk – Perfect for combining sauces and glazes.
• Large skillet or grill pan – For cooking the chicken evenly.
• Meat thermometer – To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.
• Storage containers – For leftovers or meal prep.

Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken Made Stepwise

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of Cheerwine, 1 cup of soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of minced garlic, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

While the chicken marinates, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of Cheerwine, 1 cup of soy sauce, 1 cup of honey, 1 cup of dark Karo syrup, 3 tablespoons of butter, 2 cups of brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of minced garlic, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the prepared glaze over the chicken, ensuring it is generously coated. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly on the chicken.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or alongside a fresh salad. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for an extra punch of flavor.

Customize for Your Needs

Feeling creative? Here are some ways to customize your Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken:

• Add vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for a complete one-pan meal.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes for more heat or add some chopped jalapeños.
• Swap the protein: Try this recipe with chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Change the sweetness: Substitute maple syrup for honey for a different flavor profile.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better!
• Keep an eye on the glaze while it simmers, as it can thicken quickly. Adjust the heat as needed.
• Using fresh garlic will enhance the flavor significantly compared to jarred minced garlic.
• If you prefer a thinner glaze, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water while it simmers.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Leftover Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, ensure the chicken is completely cooled and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. The glaze may thicken in the fridge, so add a splash of water or chicken broth when reheating to loosen it up.

Quick Questions

Can I use other types of soda instead of Cheerwine?

Absolutely! Any dark soda with a similar sweetness, like cherry cola or root beer, can work well in this recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can easily be adjusted by modifying the amount of red pepper flakes used in the marinade and glaze. If you prefer it milder, use less or omit it altogether.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply marinate the chicken as directed, then place it in the slow cooker with the glaze ingredients. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until fully cooked.

What can I serve with Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a refreshing salad or Sheet Pan Honey Garlic Chicken Veggies for a complete meal.

The Last Word

Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish bursting with flavor. The combination of sweet Cheerwine and savory spices creates a magical glaze that transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Don’t forget to savor every bite, and enjoy the sweet heat!

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Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken

This Sweet Heat Cheerwine Chicken is a flavor explosion! The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, it’s an easy weeknight dinner the whole family will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 lbs chicken breast
• 1 cup Cheerwine
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup Cheerwine (for the glaze)
• 1 cup soy sauce (for the glaze)
• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup dark Karo syrup
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons minced garlic (for the glaze)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (for the glaze)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for the glaze)
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (for the glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (for the glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for the glaze)

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Large skillet or grill pan
• Meat Thermometer
• Storage containers

Method

 

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of Cheerwine, 1 cup of soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of minced garlic, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Glaze:

1. While the chicken marinates, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of Cheerwine, 1 cup of soy sauce, 1 cup of honey, 1 cup of dark Karo syrup, 3 tablespoons of butter, 2 cups of brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of minced garlic, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened.

Cooking the Chicken:

1. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the chicken in the hot skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Glazing the Chicken:

1. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the prepared glaze over the chicken, ensuring it is generously coated. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly on the chicken.

Serving:

1. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or alongside a fresh salad. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for an extra punch of flavor.

Notes

• For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better!
• Keep an eye on the glaze while it simmers, as it can thicken quickly. Adjust the heat as needed.
• Using fresh garlic will enhance the flavor significantly compared to jarred minced garlic.
• If you prefer a thinner glaze, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water while it simmers.