why make this recipe
Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of oranges. The flavors come together beautifully, making it a perfect option for both family dinners and special occasions. It’s not just tasty; it’s also colorful and can brighten up any plate. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, so you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen.
how to make Cranberry Orange Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Orange zest for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken breasts on both sides until golden.
- Transfer seared chicken to a baking dish and pour the cranberry mixture over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with orange zest and thyme before serving.
how to serve Cranberry Orange Chicken
Serve Cranberry Orange Chicken on a plate with some of the cranberry sauce spooned over the top. It pairs nicely with sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
how to store Cranberry Orange Chicken
To store leftovers, place the chicken and any remaining sauce in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Make sure to let it cool completely before putting it in the freezer in a freezer-safe container. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Cranberry Orange Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the cranberry-orange mixture for a few hours before cooking.
- If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry mixture.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
variation
You can try using turkey breasts instead of chicken for a different flavor. Additionally, feel free to add other fruits like sliced apples or pears to the cranberry mixture for added sweetness.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used, but they may take a little longer to cook.
2. What can I substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep since it stores well and reheats nicely for quick meals throughout the week.
Cranberry Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar You can use either sweetener based on preference.
- 4 pieces chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For searing the chicken.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Optional, for additional flavor.
- Orange zest For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken breasts on both sides until golden.
- Transfer seared chicken to a baking dish and pour the cranberry mixture over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with orange zest and thyme before serving.