Cranberry sauce isn't just for Thanksgiving! This vibrant, tart fruit adds a surprisingly delicious twist to chicken dishes, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful cranberry-glazed chicken that's easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
What Makes this Cranberry Chicken Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it balances the tartness of cranberries with the richness of chicken and a touch of sweetness. We're not just slapping cranberry sauce on chicken; we're creating a flavorful glaze that deeply penetrates the meat, resulting in a tender and intensely flavored dish. The inclusion of orange zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the cranberry beautifully, while a hint of red pepper flakes provides a subtle warmth.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Cranberry Glaze:
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step helps to seal in the juices.
- Make the Cranberry Glaze: While the chicken is searing, combine the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, orange zest, balsamic vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Glaze and Bake (or Simmer): You have two options here:
- Baking: Pour the cranberry glaze over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly.
- Simmering: Reduce the heat under the skillet to low, cover, and simmer the chicken in the cranberry glaze for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Flip the chicken halfway through.
- Serve: Serve the cranberry-glazed chicken immediately. It's delicious on its own, or you can serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. There's no need to thaw them before using; just add them directly to the saucepan with the other glaze ingredients.
What can I serve with cranberry chicken?
This dish pairs well with many sides. Consider rice pilaf, roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad. Mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting option.
Can I make the cranberry glaze ahead of time?
Yes! The cranberry glaze can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it gently before glazing the chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked safely.
Can I use different citrus fruits?
While orange zest and juice work best in this recipe, you could experiment with lemon or lime for a slightly different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the overall flavor will change.
This cranberry chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with this easy yet elegant dish! Remember to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Enjoy!
