Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce

Name: Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 duck breasts; 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh thyme for garnish

Highlighted under: International Cooking

I absolutely adore bringing bold flavors together in my cooking, and this Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce is a prime example of that. The rich, savory duck pairs perfectly with the sweet and tart cherry sauce, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet surprisingly approachable. I’ve perfected this recipe over countless dinners with friends and family, and every single bite transports me to culinary bliss. It’s the kind of meal that's perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, and I'm excited to share this experience with you!

Created by

Nerissa Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:33:34.643Z

When I first tried duck breast at a restaurant, I was captivated by its unique flavor. I couldn’t shake the idea of recreating that experience at home, so I went on a quest to find the perfect combination of ingredients to elevate the duck. After experimenting with various sauces, I discovered how beautifully cherries complement the gamey richness of the meat. It’s been a hit at dinner parties ever since!

One key tip I've learned is to score the skin of the duck breast before cooking. This helps render out the fat while ensuring the skin gets beautifully crispy. I usually serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light salad, allowing the cherry sauce to shine and transforming the dish into a gourmet experience!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, savory duck breast with a sweet and tangy cherry sauce
Crispy skin that adds a delightful texture
Impressive yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner

Mastering Duck Breast Cooking

Cooking duck breast to perfection can be a daunting task for many home cooks, but it's all about the fat rendering. Start with a cold skillet and place the scored duck breasts skin-side down. This allows the fat to render out slowly, which is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin. Keep the heat on medium, and after about 6-8 minutes, you should see the edges of the skin turning golden and crispy. If the fat isn't rendering properly, increase the heat slightly but watch closely to avoid burning.

After flipping, cook the duck breasts for an additional 6-8 minutes on the flesh side. The internal temperature should reach about 135°F for medium-rare, which is just right for enjoying the rich flavor without drying it out. If you're uncertain about doneness, an instant-read thermometer is a handy tool here. Allow the breasts to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing, as this helps redistribute the juices for a more tender bite.

Perfecting the Cherry Sauce

The cherry sauce is where this dish truly shines, providing a perfect balance to the rich duck. Using fresh cherries gives a vibrant flavor, but if they're out of season, frozen cherries are an excellent alternative. Just be sure to thaw and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in your sauce. As you cook the sauce, look for a glossy consistency; it should only take about 5-7 minutes of simmering for it to thicken slightly and intensify in flavor. If it thickens too much, a splash of chicken broth can help bring it back to the right texture.

When seasoning the sauce, taste as you go. The honey brings sweetness, while the balsamic vinegar adds a tangy depth—both complementing the savory duck beautifully. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey, or consider adding a splash of red wine for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh thyme not only garnishes but also enhances the aromatic quality; don't skip it as we want to make every bite count!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a seamless cooking experience:

Ingredients for Duck and Sauce

2 duck breasts
1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh thyme for garnish

Make sure you have everything ready before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked duck with a delicious sauce:

Prepare Duck Breasts

Score the skin of the duck breasts in a crisscross pattern, taking care not to cut into the meat. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Cook Duck

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the duck breasts skin-side down and cook for 6-8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or longer to reach your desired doneness. Remove and let rest.

Make Cherry Sauce

In the same skillet, add the pitted cherries, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Slice the duck breasts and serve them drizzled with the cherry sauce. Garnish with fresh thyme.

Enjoy your delicious duck breast with cherry sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the cherry sauce while it's cooking. This can give it additional depth and complexity.

Serving Suggestions

When plating this Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce, presentation is key. Consider serving it atop a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a vibrant color contrast. A sprinkle of fleur de sel on the finished dish adds a touch of sophistication; the flaky sea salt will enhance the flavors and provide a pleasant crunch with each bite. Consider pairing with a light red wine like Pinot Noir to elevate your dining experience.

To impress your guests even more, serve with a side of wild rice or quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs and a zesty vinaigrette. This will add a refreshing element to counterbalance the richness of the duck and balance your plate beautifully. Don't shy away from experimenting with sides; a tangy slaw can also provide the crunch that complements the tender duck.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe allows for some make-ahead options that can save time on busy nights. You can pre-score the duck breasts and season them the day before, allowing the flavors to infuse. Just cover and refrigerate; it makes cooking much quicker when you're ready to prepare the dish. For the cherry sauce, you can cook and chill it in advance, just reheat gently to preserve the fresh flavor before serving.

Storing leftovers? The duck can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, place it in a skillet over low heat skin-side down to revive the crispy texture while warming the inside. The cherry sauce can also be stored for up to a week, but you'll want to re-thicken it slowly on the stove while stirring occasionally; this ensures it remains luscious and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

→ What sides pair well with duck?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad are excellent pairs that complement the duck nicely.

→ How do I know if my duck is cooked properly?

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Medium-rare is achieved at an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).

→ Can I prepare the cherry sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day in advance and reheat it gently before serving.