Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that marries the savory taste of chicken with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries and zesty orange. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The vibrant colors and fragrant aromas make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (approximately 680 g)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (approximately 150 g)
- 1 large orange zested and juiced (about 150 ml juice)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (30 ml)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 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 (120 ml)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional) (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional) (5 ml)
Directions
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme or rosemary. Marinate for 30 minutes if desired.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for about 30 seconds. Add cranberries, orange juice, zest, and honey. Bring to a simmer for 5-7 minutes until cranberries burst.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, and add chicken broth. Cover and simmer on low for 10-12 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve with cranberry-orange sauce and garnish with herbs or zest.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Nutrition Info: Approximately 350 calories per serving, 30g protein, 15g carbs, 20g fat.
How to serve
Cranberry Orange Chicken can be served in various ways to complement its flavors. Pair it with a side of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of mixed greens or with roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to drizzle extra cranberry-orange sauce on top for an extra burst of flavor. Garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley will add a beautiful finishing touch!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they might need a bit longer to break down.
2. What can I substitute for honey?
If you prefer a vegan option, maple syrup is a great substitute for honey.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it just before serving. The flavors will continue to meld for a tastier meal.