Introduction
Gather around for a delightful culinary adventure with this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken! This dish combines the tangy flavor of fresh cranberries with the bright zest of orange, ensuring a deliciously unique dinner experience that will brighten up even the gloomiest of nights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, orange zest, and ground ginger.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve with extra sauce.
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in orange juice and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
- Substitute the honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for great lunch options!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the technique of searing, which adds a beautiful golden crust to the chicken while locking in moisture. Simmering the sauce allows the cranberries to soften and meld with the other flavors, creating a mouthwatering glaze.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh? Yes, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
- What can I serve with this dish? It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken separately and combine them before serving.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a perfect blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. Celebrate mealtime with this easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy every delicious bite!