Hey there! If you’re looking for a delightful dinner that packs a punch in flavor and is super simple to whip up, then I’m excited to share my Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe with you! This dish is not only sweet and tangy, but it also brings a beautiful splash of color to your dinner table. Trust me, your family will love it, and you’ll love how easy it is to make—it’s a win-win!
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is a fantastic way to incorporate lean protein into your meal, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. Chicken is a great source of protein, and combined with cranberries, it brings in a dose of antioxidants and vitamins. Cranberries are known for their benefits to urinary tract health and they add a lovely sweet-tart flavor to the dish. Plus, oranges bring in vitamin C, which gives your immune system a nice boost! So, this isn’t just a delicious meal; it’s a nourishing one too!
Fun Adaptable Variations
- Swap the Chicken: If you prefer, you can use turkey cutlets or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s cooked through.
- Different Fruit: In place of cranberries, feel free to use sliced peaches or pineapples for a tropical twist!
- Spice It Up: Want a little heat? You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the sauce if you love that spicy kick.
Easy Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- Zest from 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a sprig of fresh thyme)
Serves 4 people
- One chicken breast per person → 4 servings
Instructions
- Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add cranberries, orange juice, honey (or maple syrup), orange zest, and thyme. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Once the cranberries start to pop, return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to soak up that delicious flavor.
- Before serving, give the sauce a quick stir, and enjoy this vibrant dish with some rice or salad. You’ll absolutely love how tangy and sweet it tastes!
Practical Tips for Cooking and Serving
- If your cranberries are frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; just add them directly to the skillet!
- Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or couscous to soak up that lovely sauce. Quinoa works great too if you’re looking for something a bit healthier.
- Leftovers? Store any extra chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave!
Equipment Needed
Here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand before you dive into this recipe:
- A large skillet or frying pan
- A cutting board for prep
- A knife for chopping
- A measuring cup and spoon for accuracy
- A spatula or tongs for flipping the chicken
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes! Just make sure to thoroughly cook it. You might need a bit more time on the stove.
- What if I don’t have cranberries? You can use other berries like blueberries or raspberries, but cranberries give that unique tartness!
- How do I know when my chicken is done? Check that it’s no longer pink in the center, and the juices run clear. Using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Can I make this dish in advance? Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
- What can I serve with this dish? It pairs well with rice, salad, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
I’d love to hear how your Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken turns out! Tag me on Pinterest or drop me a comment to share your experience! Enjoy your cooking adventures, and remember to savor every bite!
