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–+ servings
Cranberry Orange Chicken

Savory Cranberry Orange Chicken for a Cozy Family Dinner

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries fresh for best flavor
  • 1 each orange zested and juiced
  • ¼ cup honey or maple syrup maple syrup makes it vegan-friendly
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing chicken
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or rosemary or dried, adjust quantity
  • to taste salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • ½ cup chicken broth or water broth enhances flavor
  • optional balsamic vinegar for added flavor complexity
  • optional Dijon mustard for tangy note

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels; season with salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme or rosemary. Let them rest for 15 minutes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  3. Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet for 30 seconds, then add cranberries, orange juice and zest, and honey (or maple syrup). Simmer until cranberries burst.
  4. Return the chicken to the skillet, add chicken broth, and simmer covered for 10-12 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F.
  5. Remove the lid, check the sauce for seasoning and serve the chicken topped with cranberry-orange sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy. Use fresh cranberries for best flavor. Prepare sauce ahead for convenience.

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