Cranberry Orange Chicken

Introduction

Cranberry Orange Chicken has a special place in my heart, and judging by the smiles at the dinner table, it seems to have won over many others as well. This delightful dish showcases the perfect marriage of zesty oranges and tart cranberries, transforming simple chicken breasts into a vibrant, flavorful feast that’s as enjoyable on a cozy weeknight as it is for festive gatherings. There’s something invigorating about the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes — it’s like a warm hug on a plate!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should this dish grace your dinner table? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to whip up! This Cranberry Orange Chicken requires minimal prep and just about 30 minutes in the oven, making it perfect for bustling weeknight dinners or last-minute guests. The balance between sweet honey and tart cranberries provides a unique flavor profile that impresses without overwhelming, even the pickiest eaters. And for those health-conscious cooks, you’ll love that it’s also packed with vitamin C from the orange and antioxidants from the cranberries.

“This dish has become a fast favorite! The combination of flavors is mind-blowing, and I love how easy it is to make during a busy week!” — Sarah K.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Making Cranberry Orange Chicken involves just a few straightforward steps, perfect for cooks of all experience levels. This recipe starts with a quick mix of flavorful ingredients and culminates in perfectly baked chicken. Just gather your supplies, and you’re on your way to a delightful dinner!

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable dish:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 orange (juiced and zested)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh herbs for garnish

Feel free to use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available – their tartness infuses just as beautifully into the dish!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot for the chicken.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish, ensuring they’re laid out evenly. Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over them, making sure every piece is well-coated.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
5. If you’d like, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Best Way to Serve

To truly elevate your Cranberry Orange Chicken experience, consider pairing it with sides that complement its zest and sweetness. Fluffy quinoa or light rice pilaf make excellent companions, soaking up any extra sauce from the dish. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can provide a refreshing crunch, while roasted vegetables add depth and heartiness to your meal. Feeling a bit adventurous? Serve it over a bed of arugula for a peppery kick!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This dish keeps beautifully. To store, simply place the chicken and any remaining sauce in an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish — it’ll keep for about 2-3 months. Just make sure to reheat completely until steaming hot before enjoying!

Pro Chef Tips

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken in the cranberry-orange mixture for a couple of hours before baking. This intensifies the flavors beautifully.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Add a Crunch: If you like a crunchy texture, toss in some chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, in the last 10 minutes of baking for added flavor and crunch.

Creative Twists

Looking to switch things up? Consider swapping the cranberries for other fruits like cherries or even pineapple for a tropical twist. You can also spice things up with a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a kick. For a herbal note, adding rosemary or thyme can introduce an aromatic depth to the dish.

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, you’ll need about 40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add moisture and flavor, and the cooking time may be slightly longer.

What can I substitute for honey?
If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup works beautifully as a substitute.

With its unique blend of flavors and straightforward preparation, Cranberry Orange Chicken is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the process and, most importantly, enjoy every savory bite!

Cranberry Orange Chicken

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A delightful dish that combines zesty oranges and tart cranberries, transforming simple chicken breasts into a flavorful feast.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 orange (juiced and zested)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh herbs for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving, if desired.

Notes

Marinate the chicken in the cranberry-orange mixture for added flavor. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Cranberry, Orange, Chicken, Easy Dinner, Healthy Recipe