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–+ servings
Cranberry Orange Chicken

Savory Cranberry Orange Chicken for a Cozy Dinner Night

Experience the delightful blend of sweet oranges and tart cranberries in this easy Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts/Thighs Choose thighs for juicier texture, or breasts for a lean option.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Provides flavor and helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown sear.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Cranberries Thaw frozen cranberries before using.
  • 1 large Orange Zest and juice are used; fresh-squeezed juice is best.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup Adjust based on your taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 0.5 cup Chicken Broth or Water Opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice.
  • Salt and Pepper Season according to your personal preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme or Rosemary Or 0.5 teaspoon dried; swap in your favorite herbs.
Optional Enhancements
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar For added richness and complexity in flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Introduces a mild tanginess to the sauce.

Equipment

  • oven-safe skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by rinsing the chicken under cool water, then pat dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
  2. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. Remove chicken from skillet and add minced garlic, sauté until fragrant; stir in cranberries, orange juice and zest, and honey or maple syrup.
  4. Return seared chicken to the skillet, add chicken broth or water, cover, and simmer on low for 10-12 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then serve with cranberry sauce over the top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Check the quality of your cranberries and oranges; fresh ingredients elevate flavors. Ensure chicken is of even thickness for uniform cooking. Letting chicken rest after cooking redistributes juices, ensuring moistness.

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