Cranberry Orange Chicken
A delightful dish that combines zesty orange and tart cranberries with tender chicken for a sweet and savory meal that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts Tender and juicy, they provide the perfect canvas for our flavorful sauce.
- 1 cup fresh cranberries Tart and bursting with flavor, they add a beautiful pop of color and taste.
- 1 large orange Freshly zested and juiced for a vibrant citrusy depth.
- 2 tablespoons honey Sweet and golden, it elevates the dish with its rich, comforting flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped Aromatic and herbal, it introduces a lovely earthy note.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for searing, adding richness and a delightful crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Savory and fragrant, it enhances the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt To season the chicken perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adding a hint of heat to balance the sweetness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Set the stage for a delightful bake!
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan.
- Sear the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side until they achieve a gorgeous golden-brown color. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for a minute or until fragrant.
- Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, honey, and chopped rosemary. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Toss in the fresh cranberries, followed by returning the chicken breasts to the pan. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the chicken.
Baking
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cranberries have burst.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken right before serving, and garnish with extra rosemary or a sprinkle of orange zest.
Notes
Serve alongside white rice or creamy mashed potatoes, and pair with seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for holiday dinners, weeknight meals, or meal prep.