Are you looking for a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This cranberry chicken breast recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights, impressing your family and friends with minimal effort. It's a delicious blend of sweet and savory, offering a delightful twist on classic chicken breast. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking that tastes amazing.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries
If using frozen cranberries, thaw them completely before starting. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, chicken broth, orange juice, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Simmer the Cranberry Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should be a beautiful, glossy consistency.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the cranberry sauce simmers, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the cranberry sauce over the chicken breasts in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb some of the delicious cranberry flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
This cranberry chicken breast recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- Roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts)
- Quinoa or brown rice
- Wild rice pilaf
- Mashed sweet potatoes
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the cranberry sauce.
- Spice it up: Include a dash of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce for a hint of heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the cranberry sauce for added texture and flavor.
- Meal prepping: This dish is great for meal prepping. Prepare the cranberry sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the chicken and combine just before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This cranberry chicken breast recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for any occasion. It’s a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will leave you wanting more. Enjoy this delicious and easy healthy meal! It’s one of the best recipes for weeknight dinners!