Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
For the Blackberry Garlic Herb Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup fresh blackberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
Reduce heat to low, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each breast, and cover the skillet for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Blackberry Base
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add blackberries and gently press them with a spoon to release their juices. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
4. Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly reduce.
Add heavy cream, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for 3–4 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered fettuccine.
- Pair with roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans.
- Garnish with fresh blackberries and chopped parsley for an elegant finish.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
A perfect balance of sweetness from the berries, gentle heat from the pepper jack, and rich creaminess from the garlic herb sauce this is a restaurant-style dish made right at home.