Irresistible Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe Delight

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that bursts with flavors, turning any ordinary meal into a feast fit for royalty. Imagine the succulent chicken, bathed in a tangy-sweet cranberry sauce, mingling with the zesty aroma of fresh oranges. The vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas will have your taste buds dancing before you even take a bite.

This dish isn’t just a treat for your palate; it’s also a trip down memory lane. I remember the first time I made Cranberry Orange Chicken for my family during a cozy holiday gathering. Everyone gathered around the table, eyes wide with anticipation, as they inhaled the fragrant notes wafting from the kitchen. That moment sparked joy and laughter, making it an instant classic in our household.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Fresh Oranges: Juicy oranges add brightness to the dish; make sure to select ones that feel heavy for their size.
• Cranberry Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade cranberry sauce for that sweet-tart flavor profile.
• Honey: A touch of honey enhances sweetness and balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• Garlic Cloves: Use fresh garlic to infuse aromatic flavors into your chicken.
• Olive Oil: This oil helps sear the chicken beautifully and adds richness to the dish.
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce works best to enhance umami without overwhelming saltiness.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep control of salt levels while adding moisture during cooking.
• Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a little kick to balance out the sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Don’t forget this step! A hot oven ensures even cooking and crispy edges.

Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken

In a large baking dish, drizzle some olive oil and place your boneless chicken breasts inside. Season them generously with salt and pepper; they deserve that little extra love!

Step 3: Mix Your Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, juice from two oranges, honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce. This will be your magical potion that transforms ordinary chicken into something spectacular.

Step 4: Pour It On

Once mixed well, pour this luscious sauce over your chicken breasts in the baking dish. Make sure each piece gets well coated—no one likes dry chicken!

Step 5: Bake Away

Slide your baking dish into the oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes or until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). The kitchen will smell heavenly during this time—try not to drool!

Step 6: Serve With Style

Once cooked through, remove from oven and let it sit for about five minutes before serving. Drizzle extra sauce over each piece when plating for that picture-perfect finish.

Now you’re ready to wow your guests (or yourself) with this stunning Cranberry Orange Chicken! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every juicy bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first in a hot pan to lock in those juicy flavors, then prepare your sides while the chicken cooks through. This method ensures efficiency and deliciousness, making your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even beef. Experiment with different citrus fruits, add spices like ginger, or top with fresh herbs for a unique twist that suits your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

I remember the first time I served Cranberry Orange Chicken at a family gathering. My uncle declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which prompted him to slice his bread into tiny pieces and declare that too!

FAQs:

What ingredients are used in Cranberry Orange Chicken?

Cranberry Orange Chicken features a delightful combination of chicken breasts, fresh cranberries, orange juice, and zest. Other ingredients include honey, garlic, and various herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor. The balance between sweet and tart from the cranberries and oranges creates a delicious sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. You can also add vegetables like carrots or green beans for a complete meal. This dish is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

How do you cook Cranberry Orange Chicken?

To cook Cranberry Orange Chicken, start by marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of orange juice, garlic, and honey. Sear the chicken in a pan until golden brown before adding fresh cranberries and the marinade. Simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens. For optimal results, ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Serve with rice or roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce. This cooking method ensures that every bite is juicy and packed with flavor.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Cranberry Orange Chicken ahead of time! Prepare the dish as directed and allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through. This makes it an ideal option for meal prep or gatherings since you can enjoy this flavorful dish without spending too much time cooking on busy days.

What side dishes pair well with Cranberry Orange Chicken?

Cranberry Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Consider serving it with fluffy rice or quinoa to absorb the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or carrots provide a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate. A crisp salad with mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully as well. These sides not only enhance your meal visually but also balance out the sweet-tart taste of the chicken.

Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Chicken:

In summary, Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a tangy-sweet cranberry-orange sauce. With simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. By preparing it ahead of time, you can save valuable cooking time during busy weeks. Pairing it with rice or roasted vegetables elevates your meal further, ensuring everyone enjoys each flavorful bite. Try this recipe today for a satisfying dinner experience!

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Cranberry Orange Chicken

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a tangy-sweet cranberry-orange sauce, perfect for impressing family and friends. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, transforming an ordinary meal into a vibrant feast full of flavor and visual appeal.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 fresh oranges (juiced and zested)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Drizzle olive oil in a large baking dish and place the chicken breasts inside. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix together cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for five minutes before serving with extra sauce drizzled on top.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg