Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This chicken breast with cranberries recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a delicious homemade meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the sweet and savory combination is simply irresistible. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This simple step helps the chicken brown nicely and retain its juices.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
Step 3: Simmer in Cranberry Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cranberries, chicken broth, orange juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and thyme to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cranberries have burst, creating a delicious sauce. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve immediately, spooning the cranberry sauce over the chicken. This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature and result in steamed, not seared, chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add some herbs: Experiment with fresh rosemary or sage for an earthy flavor.
- Use different citrus: Lemon juice works well as a substitute for orange juice.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal. The approximate nutritional information (per serving, without sides) is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious and easy chicken breast with cranberries recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this healthy meal, perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. It's a testament to how simple ingredients can create truly delicious dishes. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be rewarding!