Festive Cranberry & Rosemary Skillet Chicken with Holiday Charm
Description
This Festive Cranberry & Rosemary Skillet Chicken is a beautiful blend of savory and sweet, designed to bring holiday warmth to your table. Juicy pan-seared chicken is simmered in a glossy cranberry sauce infused with garlic, rosemary, and a hint of honey. The dish feels special enough for celebrations yet simple enough for a comforting winter dinner. Bright cranberries and fragrant herbs make it visually stunning and irresistibly aromatic.
Preparation & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cranberry Rosemary Sauce
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme (optional
For Garnish
Fresh rosemary sprigs
Extra cranberries or orange zest (optional)
Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add butter and garlic; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in cranberries, chicken broth, honey, vinegar, rosemary, and thyme.
4. Simmer
Bring sauce to a gentle simmer. Cook 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Return the Chicken
Nestle chicken back into the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top.
Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
6. Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust sweetness or seasoning. Garnish with fresh rosemary and extra cranberries for a festive look.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over mashed potatoes, buttery rice, or roasted sweet potatoes
Pair with green beans, brussels sprouts, or a holiday salad
Add crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Tips for Best Results
Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful
Sauce thickens more as it cools
Fresh rosemary gives the best holiday aroma
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use dried cranberries?
A: Yes, soak them in warm water or broth for 10 minutes first, but fresh cranberries give the best flavor and color.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Make up to 1 day ahead and reheat gently on the stove.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes, olive oil or vegan
Q: What can I substitute for honey?
A: Maple syrup or brown sugar works perfectly.