Are you looking for a show-stopping yet surprisingly simple dish to grace your holiday table? Look no further! This festive chicken breast recipe is guaranteed to impress your guests, whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice. It's packed with flavor, beautiful to present, and surprisingly quick to make, fitting perfectly into even the busiest holiday schedule. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional heavier holiday fare, making it a perfect choice for a balanced and enjoyable meal. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients: (Serves 4)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This simple step elevates the flavor significantly.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the entire dish.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Pour in the chicken broth, stir in the dried cranberries, walnuts (or pecans), and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Baking the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet, ensuring they are nestled in the flavorful sauce. Pour the balsamic vinegar evenly over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This simple garnish adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the dish's visual appeal.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken breasts for even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar to suit your preferences.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Swap the nuts: Use different nuts like almonds or cashews.
- Use fresh cranberries: If you prefer, substitute fresh cranberries for dried, adding them during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This festive chicken breast recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. It’s an easy recipe that delivers big on flavor and presentation, making it ideal for any special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner. Enjoy!