Delightful Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Flavor Lovers

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory, and my Cranberry Chicken recipe captures this enchantment perfectly. Imagine succulent chicken drenched in a vibrant cranberry sauce, the aroma wafting through your kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. try scalloped sweet potatoes perfect side for cranberry chicken It’s like a party in your mouth where everyone’s invited!

Many cherished memories revolve around this dish—family gatherings filled with laughter, friends gathered around the dinner table, and even those cozy nights when all you need is comfort food to soothe your soul. This delightful recipe not only tastes amazing but also looks like a masterpiece, making it perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself on a quiet evening. For more inspiration, check out this orange custard squares recipe.

I recall the first time I served this Cranberry Chicken at a family gathering; everyone asked for seconds and thirds!

Essential Ingredients

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 Cranberries: Look for bright red cranberries; they should be firm and plump for the best flavor.
• Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and balances the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
• Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; choose firm bulbs for maximum flavor.
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while enhancing umami flavors.
• Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil helps brown the chicken nicely before adding the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all other flavors in the dish.
• Dried Thyme: Adds an earthy note that complements the sweet-tart cranberries perfectly.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Chicken: Start by patting dry 3-4 boneless chicken breasts with paper towels. This step ensures that they sear beautifully without steaming.

Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Create Your Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup fresh cranberries, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Stir until well mixed; let it sit while chicken finishes cooking.

Add Sauce to Chicken: Once your chicken is browned thoroughly, pour the cranberry mixture over it. Reduce heat to medium-low and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes.

Finish Cooking Through: Check if chicken is cooked through by ensuring its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The sauce will thicken slightly during this time.

Serve with Flair!: Plate your succulent cranberry chicken with a drizzle of sauce over it. serve with cheesy garlic bread Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for that extra wow factor!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish as you savor its rich flavors and vibrant colors!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then bake it with the cranberry sauce for juicy results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cranberries for cherries or add nuts like pecans for extra crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven to retain moisture.

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my family’s Thanksgiving dinners, where this dish was always a showstopper and sparked laughter around the table.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this cranberry chicken recipe?

add some roasted Brussels sprouts.

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

What side dishes pair well with cranberry chicken?

Mashed potatoes and green beans go perfectly with this flavorful dish. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe recipe.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Cranberry Chicken

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• Author: Mia Hanry
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the magic of flavors with this irresistible Cranberry Chicken recipe. Juicy chicken breasts coated in a tangy cranberry sauce create an explosion of taste, perfect for any occasion. This dish not only tantalizes the palate but also serves as a stunning centerpiece for gatherings or cozy nights in. With its vibrant colors and comforting aroma, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Pat dry the chicken breasts with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. In a bowl, mix cranberries, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and thyme. Let sit while chicken cooks.
4. Pour the cranberry mixture over the browned chicken; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 70mg