Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors. The combination of juicy chicken and tangy cranberries, paired with the bright notes of orange, makes for a perfect meal. This recipe is quick and easy, making it great for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 large orange zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for extra depth of flavor, optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for a slight tang, optional)
Directions:
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme or rosemary. If you have time, marinate the chicken to enhance its flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey or syrup. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the cranberries burst and soften.
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Add chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Cover and simmer on low for 10 to 12 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve the chicken with the cranberry orange sauce and garnish with fresh herbs or additional orange zest.
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Chicken
Cranberry Orange Chicken is best served warm. Pair it with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You can also add a side salad for a refreshing touch. To elevate the dish, consider serving it with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Store Cranberry Orange Chicken
To store leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight.
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, but you can substitute frozen cranberries if needed. Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup depending on your taste preference.
Variation
You can add other fruits like apples or pears for a different twist. Alternatively, replace the chicken with turkey for a seasonal variation, especially during holidays.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing.
Q: Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
A: No, marinating is optional, but it can add more flavor to the chicken.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat it before serving. Just be careful not to overcook the chicken during reheating.
Cranberry Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme or rosemary. For best flavor, marinate the chicken if time allows.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 4 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey or syrup. Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the cranberries burst and soften.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and add chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Cover and simmer on low for 10 to 12 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve the chicken with the cranberry orange sauce and garnish with fresh herbs or additional orange zest.