Balsamic Chicken With Pears

Directions

1. 1
   Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
2. 2
   One at a time, place the chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap.
3. 3
   Using a meat mallet, carefully pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness of approximately 1/2-inch.
4. 4
   Season on both sides with salt and pepper.
5. 5
   In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, add the olive oil.
6. 6
   When the oil is hot, add the chicken and saute, turning once, for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
7. 7
   Remove from heat and transfer to a platter, cover, and keep warm.
8. 8
   To the same pan, add the shallot and saute over medium-high heat for 2 minutes or until soft; decrease heat to medium and add the pears.
9. 9
   Continue sauteing, stirring occasionally for 3 to 4 minutes, until the pears are soft and golden brown.
10. 10
    To prepare the sauce, combine chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl.
11. 11
    Pour over the pear mixture; add the cherries. Increase heat to high and simmer, stirring frequently for 6 to 8 minutes or until the sauce thicksn slightly.
12. 12
    Return the chicken and any juices to the pan. Bring the mixture back to a simmer; decrease heat to medium.
13. 13
    Cook for 10 minutes or until a meat thermometer registers an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (juices will run clear when cut with the tip of a knife).
14. 14
    Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove chicken from heat.
15. 15
    Place the chicken on individual serving plates or on a large platter.
16. 16
    Using a slotted spoon, mound the fruit over the top.
17. 17
    Spoon the sauce over the fruit and around the chicken.
18. 18
    Serve immediately.