why make this recipe
Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the tangy flavor of cranberries with the sweetness of orange. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The vibrant colors and delicious aroma will make your meal feel festive and fresh. Plus, it’s a healthy option that packs a punch of flavor!
how to make Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
- In a bowl, mix together the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey.
- Pour the cranberry mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
how to serve Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken
Serve this dish warm, right from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or quinoa. A fresh green salad can also complement the flavors nicely. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the delicious sauce over your side dishes!
how to store Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken
To store any leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
tips to make Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken
- Make sure to thinly slice the chicken for even cooking.
- Stick to fresh cranberries for the best flavor; dried cranberries will not give the same burst.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste.
- For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
variation
You can switch out the chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier texture. Additionally, adding other fruits like diced apples or pears can enhance the flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used, but they may need a little extra cooking time to soften and burst.
2. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can reduce the amount of honey or use a sugar substitute if you prefer a lighter version.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the cranberry sauce ahead of time. Just reheat before serving.
Making Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken is a simple way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. Enjoy your cooking!
Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh cranberries Stick to fresh cranberries for best flavor.
- 1 pieces orange Juiced and zested.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey Feel free to adjust sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley Garnish before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
Cooking
- In a bowl, mix together the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey.
- Pour the cranberry mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.