Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with something truly special? Meet Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken! This dish is the perfect combination of juicy chicken, tangy cranberries, and zesty oranges that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Imagine a mouthwatering chicken dish where sweet and sour flavors come together in a beautiful harmony. It’s an easy recipe that can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family without the fuss. Plus, the vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes, which means it’s almost too pretty to eat — but don’t worry, you’ll want to!
You might be surprised to learn that cranberries aren’t just for sauce on the side – they can be a delicious part of the main attraction! This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken turns them into a flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. So why not give it a try? You won’t regret bringing this delectable dish to your table!
What is Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken?
So, what’s in a name? Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken sounds fancy, but it’s a fun and simple meal that comes together in one pan, which is every busy cook’s dream! Imagine whipping up a flavorful dish that not only pleases the palate but also saves on dishes. Who could resist? The quirky naming might come from the colorful mix of chicken swimming in a cranberry-orange ocean, making it sound both intriguing and delicious. After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and boy, will this dish capture hearts! Grab your skillet and get ready to create something fabulous.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
Why should you try Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken? First, the chicken is so tender that it practically melts in your mouth. Second, it’s a cost-effective option that allows you to create an extraordinary meal at home without spending a fortune. You can make this dish using simple, affordable ingredients, and it will still taste gourmet!
Finally, let’s talk about those cranberries and oranges. The sweet and tart flavors provide a delightful kick that will leave your family raving about dinner. Pair this dish with rice or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress. If you enjoy hearty, flavorful food, you’ll want to check out our other popular recipes. Give this dish a try at home and watch everyone enjoy every single bite!
How to Make Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
Quick Overview
Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is easy to make and delicious to eat. This dish is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors and comes together in about 30 minutes of cooking time, making it a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner. The sauce is rich and full-bodied, bringing out the best flavors in the juicy chicken.
Key Ingredients for Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
To make this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of one orange
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken the sauce)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, and rosemary. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5-8 minutes until the cranberries begin to burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Thicken the Sauce: Mix the cornstarch with water and add to the sauce. Stir until combined, and cook for another minute until the sauce reaches desired thickness.
- Combine and Serve: Add the chicken back into the skillet, coating it evenly with the sauce. Serve warm, drizzled with extra sauce and garnished with more cranberries or orange zest if desired.
Top Tips for Perfecting Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
- Chicken Cuts: Want to save prep time? You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts; they’re juicy and flavorful!
- Seasoning: Adjust the sweetness and tartness by altering the amount of honey and cranberries; taste as you go!
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh cranberries are great, but if you can’t find them, frozen ones will work wonderfully—just don’t thaw them beforehand!
- Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with a salad or fluffy rice, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Once you’ve enjoyed your Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or orange juice to keep it moist. You can also microwave individual servings for a convenient lunch option.
This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that will impress everyone at your dinner table. Happy cooking!
Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries Do not thaw if using frozen.
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary Or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water To thicken the sauce.
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, and rosemary. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5-8 minutes until the cranberries begin to burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Mix the cornstarch with water and add to the sauce. Stir until combined, and cook for another minute until the sauce reaches the desired thickness.
- Add the chicken back into the skillet, coating it evenly with the sauce. Serve warm, drizzled with extra sauce and garnished with more cranberries or orange zest if desired.
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