Cranberry Orange Chicken
This Cranberry Orange Chicken is a sweet, tangy, and savory dish perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. Fresh orange juice and tart cranberries create a flavorful glaze that complements the tender chicken beautifully.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup fresh orange juice (from about 2 oranges)
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
Prepare Chicken:
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Sear Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Remove chicken and set aside (it will finish cooking later).
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium.
Add orange juice, chicken broth, honey, orange zest, cranberries, and thyme.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
Cook Chicken in Sauce:
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Thicken Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the skillet.
Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Serve:
Plate the chicken and spoon the cranberry-orange sauce on top.
Garnish with extra orange zest or thyme if desired.
Notes and Tips
Chicken Options: Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Oranges: Use fresh oranges for the best flavor. Bottled orange juice is not recommended.
Cranberries: Frozen cranberries work well if fresh ones are unavailable.
Balancing Flavors: Add a splash of vinegar (apple cider or white wine) if the dish is too sweet.
Side Dish Suggestions: Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to soak up the sauce.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I substitute for honey?
A: Maple syrup or brown sugar are great alternatives for sweetness.
Q: Can I add other spices?
A: Feel free to experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile.
Q: How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
A: Searing locks in juices, and simmering in the sauce helps keep the chicken moist. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Cranberry Orange Chicken for a comforting meal!