Cranberry Chicken Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 11, 2025

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Cranberry Chicken Recipe: A Festive and Flavorful Dish

This cranberry chicken recipe is perfect for a holiday meal or any special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers a burst of festive flavor that will impress your guests. The sweet and tart cranberries perfectly complement the savory chicken, creating a delightful balance of tastes and textures. This recipe is also highly adaptable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to your liking.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
• 1 (12 ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries: If using frozen, no need to thaw.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor.
• 1/4 cup orange juice: Provides a bright citrusy note.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb pairing with chicken and cranberries.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: To taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: To taste.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh thyme sprigs, toasted pecans, or orange zest.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

This recipe is designed for ease and efficiency, making it perfect for even beginner cooks.

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Cranberries:

1. In the same skillet, add the cranberries, chicken broth, orange juice, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer:

1. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the cranberry sauce.
2. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy:

1. Serve the cranberry chicken immediately over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.
2. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, toasted pecans, or orange zest for an extra touch of elegance.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Add some vegetables: Include chopped onions, carrots, or celery along with the chicken for a heartier dish.
• Use different citrus: Substitute lemon or lime juice for the orange juice.
• Make it a slow cooker meal: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

This cranberry chicken recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using #CranberryChickenRecipe on social media!