HONORING LORETTA’S MEMORY!
Today, July 25, my sister Loretta would have been 82. Over the years I have shared many experiences on the blog that I had enjoyed with Loretta. She was an avid follower of the blog and always encouraged me to keep writing. In February of 2023, Loretta’s time on this earth ended. Loretta was a beautiful melody in the rhythm of my life. Her passing has left such an empty place in my heart.
The phrase ‘too much of a good thing’ is certainly not true when it comes to the many memories we shared. I will always give anything to recollect and relive the memories we created together.
She was a constant in my life during her lifetime. Loretta was so much more than just a sister to me. Only her love, kindness, and the memories we shared can bridge the gap between the departure of her passing.
Loretta was a very kind, gentle soul. She was a sister, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, friend and professional health care worker as well as many other things she did with such love and compassion.
I wanted to make something special on the blog to honor her memory. This blackberry chicken seems fitting since she loved berries.

Servings |
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- 2 Tbsp PLUS 1/2 cup fresh blackberries, divided
- 1/2 cup chicken broth, divided
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 tsp smoked paprika, divided
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- 6-8 boneless/skinless chicken thighs
- 4 1/2 tsp fresh thyme, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 2 tsp cornstarch
Ingredients
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- In a small bowl, mash 2 Tbsp berries. Add 1/4 cup broth, brown sugar, vinegar, oil, garlic, 1/4 teaspoon paprika & cumin.
- Place chicken in an 11x7-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray; pour broth mixture over the top. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, pepper & remaining paprika.
- Bake, uncovered, at 375 F. for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, basting occasionally with pan juices. Remove chicken and keep warm.
- Skim fat from pan drippings. In a small saucepan, combine cornstarch & remaining broth until smooth. Gradually stir in drippings. Bring to a boil; cook & stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Serve with chicken; sprinkle with remaining blackberries. Mashed potatoes or pasta with some roasted veggies round out this meal nicely.