Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that also feels special enough for a holiday gathering? Look no further! This Cranberry Chicken recipe, baked to perfection in the oven, is the answer. It's bursting with sweet and tart cranberry flavors, perfectly complemented by tender chicken and savory herbs. This recipe is a winner for busy weeknights, holiday meals, or any time you crave a comforting and healthy dish. It's one of those easy recipes that always impresses!
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
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, chicken broth, orange juice, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If using, stir in pecans or walnuts during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the Dijon mixture over them, ensuring each breast is coated evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Pour the cranberry sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are mostly covered. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the cranberry chicken immediately. The chicken is incredibly juicy and pairs beautifully with the tart-sweet cranberry sauce. This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cranberry Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken breasts for even cooking.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cranberry sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, add more for extra sweetness.
- Add a touch of spice: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce.
- Make it ahead: The cranberry sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Lemon Cranberry Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the cranberry sauce for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Spicy Cranberry Chicken: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the cranberry sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Cranberry Chicken recipe is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion. Its delicious flavors and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking enthusiasts. It's a healthy meal option, too, packed with protein and antioxidants. Enjoy!