Chicken with Almond and Berry Relish

 Chicken with Almond and Berry Relish is a delicious and refreshing summer dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the sweet and tart notes of a berry relish. The almonds add a delightful crunch and textural contrast. Here's a recipe guide to get you started:

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the Almond and Berry Relish:
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries or blueberries (or a combination)
  • ½ cup sliced almonds
  • 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint or basil, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken (Optional): For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts or thighs. Season them generously with salt and pepper. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil with your preferred marinade ingredients (Italian dressing, lemon juice and herbs, etc.). Add the chicken pieces and coat them well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

2. Prepare the Relish: In a medium bowl, combine the berries, almonds, red onion (if using), and fresh herbs (if using). Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss to combine everything.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. If you marinated the chicken, remove the pieces from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Assemble and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, plate it and spoon the almond and berry relish over the top. You can serve this dish with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Tips:

• To add a thicker consistency to the relish, you can mash some of the berries before mixing them with the other ingredients.
• If you don't have fresh berries, you can use frozen berries instead. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.
• For a nut-free option, simply omit the almonds from the relish.
• You can experiment with different types of berries and herbs to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This Chicken with Almond and Berry Relish is a flavorful and healthy dish that's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures is sure to please everyone at the table!