Name: Cranberry Orange Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1.25 teaspoons kosher salt; 0.5 teaspoon paprika; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1.5 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen; 0.67 cups orange juice; 0.25 cups pure maple syrup; 0.25 cups light brown sugar; 1.5 teaspoons orange zest; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt; orange slices, for garnish (optional)

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Chicken

If you’re a young professional looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, Cranberry Orange Chicken is a fantastic option to consider! Not only does this dish combine the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of orange, but it also provides a perfect balance of flavors that can tantalize your taste buds after a long day at work. Plus, it's easy to prepare, making it a great fit for those busy evenings.

Cooking after a hectic day doesn’t need to be a chore. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a wholesome meal that pleases both your palate and your schedule. Quick cooking methods mean you can be enjoying your homemade dinner while catching up on your favorite series or winding down with a good book.

Healthy eating is also a priority for many young professionals today. According to health experts, incorporating lean proteins like chicken and nutrient-rich ingredients like fresh cranberries can significantly boost your daily nutrient intake (source). So why not treat yourself to a dish that not only tastes great but also nourishes your body? Get ready, because Cranberry Orange Chicken is about to become your new go-to recipe!

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Chicken

Chicken

For a perfectly juicy Cranberry Orange Chicken, start with 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs. These provide a tender and flavorful base that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy sauce. Season the chicken with 1 ¼ teaspoons of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of paprika for a hint of warmth, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper to add depth. Lastly, cook your chicken in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil for that rich flavor and perfect sear.

Cranberry Orange Sauce

The star of this dish is the Cranberry Orange Sauce, which bursts with flavor! You’ll need 1 ½ cups of cranberries, fresh or frozen, to bring that bright, tart taste. Combine this with ⅔ cup of orange juice and ¼ cup each of pure maple syrup and light brown sugar for a delightful sweetness. Add 1 ½ teaspoons of orange zest and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic to enhance the overall flavor, finishing with a pinch of kosher salt. For an elegant touch, garnish with orange slices – optional but highly recommended!

For more insights on the health benefits of cranberries, you can check out this article by the Cranberry Marketing Committee.

Step-by-step Preparation for Cranberry Orange Chicken

Prep the chicken

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s start by prepping our chicken thighs. Begin by patting them dry with paper towels — this step is essential for achieving a beautifully seared exterior. In a small bowl, mix together 1 ¼ teaspoons of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. This seasoning blend adds incredible flavor! Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh. For a little extra tenderness, let the chicken sit for about 10–15 minutes while you prepare your other ingredients. This simple prep can enhance the meat’s flavor profile, making your Cranberry Orange Chicken more delicious.

Cook the chicken thighs

Next, head over to the stove. In a large nonstick skillet, add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and heat it over medium. Once it's warm and shimmering, add the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Depending on your skillet size, you might need to cook in batches. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on one side, until it’s a gorgeous golden color. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. This is crucial for safe eating! Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it lightly with aluminum foil to keep it warm.

Make the cranberry orange sauce

Now onto the star of the show — the cranberry orange sauce! Without cleaning the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add 1 ½ cups of fresh or frozen cranberries, ⅔ cup of orange juice, ¼ cup of pure maple syrup, ¼ cup of light brown sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons of orange zest, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook this vibrant mixture for about 10 minutes, scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the pan. As the cranberries heat, gently squish them to release their juices. This sauce is where you unlock the bright, tangy flavor profile that complements your chicken.

Combine and finish cooking

Now, let’s bring it all together! Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet with the sauce, making sure to spoon some of that luscious mixture over the top of each piece. Cook for an additional minute to ensure the chicken is warmed through. This brief time in the sauce allows the chicken to absorb that irresistible flavor. For a beautiful finish, garnish your Cranberry Orange Chicken with orange slices. Serve warm and enjoy a delightful meal that’s not just good — it’s memorable!

If you want to elevate this dish even further, consider pairing it with some rosemary-roasted potatoes or a fresh spinach salad. Happy cooking!

Variations of Cranberry Orange Chicken

If you're looking to switch things up with your Cranberry Orange Chicken, there are plenty of delicious variations to explore!

Substitute with Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham

For a lighter twist, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon. The smoky flavor complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce beautifully, while adding fewer calories. Alternatively, you can swap in chicken ham for a leaner protein that pairs just as well with the fruity notes of the dish.

Add Nuts for Crunch

Looking to add a delightful crunch? Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts just before serving. The nutty flavor adds an exciting texture contrast to the tender chicken, while boosting the overall nutrition. Plus, who doesn't love a little crunch with their succulent poultry?

Feel free to experiment with these options, and watch your guests be impressed with your Cranberry Orange Chicken!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cranberry Orange Chicken

Ensuring the chicken is tender and juicy

To achieve perfectly tender and juicy chicken thighs, consider brining them in a simple mixture of water and salt for about 30 minutes before cooking. This extra step can really help lock in moisture and flavor. When cooking, ensure your skillet is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear. Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe and delicious results. You can also check out this USDA guide on poultry cooking for more insights.

Tips for a thicker sauce

For a thicker cranberry orange sauce, allow it to simmer longer to reduce and intensify the flavors. If you're looking for an even richer texture, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce while it’s cooking. This will help create a luscious glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken. Remember to taste and adjust the sweetness with additional maple syrup or brown sugar to perfectly balance tart and sweet flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Chicken

Pairing with Grains or Salads

Transform your Cranberry Orange Chicken into a complete meal by serving it alongside flavorful grains or vibrant salads. Consider pairing it with:

Quinoa: Its nutty flavor complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
Brown Rice: A hearty option that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with avocado, nuts, and citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.

These options not only enrich your plate but also add diverse textures and tastes. Check out this quinoa salad recipe for a great addition!

Ideas for Garnishing

Elevate your dish with simple yet effective garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds color and freshness. For an extra citrusy touch, place orange slices on the plate or even zest some on top of the chicken. Want to impress? A handful of toasted nuts can introduce a satisfying crunch. These finishing touches will make your Cranberry Orange Chicken not just delicious, but also beautiful!

Time Breakdown for Cranberry Orange Chicken

Preparation time
Start by giving yourself about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients. This includes seasoning the chicken thighs and measuring out all the necessary ingredients for that delightful Cranberry Orange Sauce.

Cooking time
Once you're ready, the cooking process will take around 20 minutes. This includes browning the chicken and simmering the sauce until it thickens to perfection.

Total time
All together, you’re looking at a total of approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. That’s perfect for a weeknight dinner! Quick and delicious, this Cranberry Orange Chicken is sure to impress.

For tips on meal prepping and selecting the best ingredients, check out these meal prep strategies to make your cooking experience even smoother.

Nutritional Facts for Cranberry Orange Chicken

When you're whipping up a savory dish like Cranberry Orange Chicken, it's good to know what you're putting on your plate. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional facts to help you enjoy this delightful meal guilt-free.

Calories

This vibrant dish clocks in at approximately 400 calories per serving, making it a fulfilling choice without overloading on calories.

Protein

Packed with 30 grams of protein per serving, this Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe is perfect for fueling your day, whether you’re busy at work or hitting the gym.

Sodium

Watch your sodium intake? This recipe balances flavors while keeping sodium in check at around 600 milligrams per serving, helping you keep your meal both flavorful and healthy.

Want to dive deeper into healthy eating? Check out the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for more insights on nutrition! The balance of sweetness from cranberries and orange juice with the protein from chicken gives you a flavorful, satisfying dish that fits into your busy lifestyle. You're not just cooking; you're nourishing your body and soul!

FAQs about Cranberry Orange Chicken

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Absolutely! Using frozen cranberries in your Cranberry Orange Chicken dish is a great option. They will cook down just like fresh cranberries, and you won’t lose any flavor. Just remember to let them thaw a bit before adding them to the skillet, as it helps them cook evenly. If you prefer to skip the thawing, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

How do I store leftovers of Cranberry Orange Chicken?

Leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For a longer shelf life, you can freeze it! Just make sure to separate the chicken from the sauce or used a freezer-friendly container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat in a skillet to keep it juicy.

What sides go well with Cranberry Orange Chicken?

Pair your Cranberry Orange Chicken with a variety of delicious sides. Here are a few suggestions:

Rice or Quinoa: They soak up the tangy sauce beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes for a hearty addition.
Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for a comforting meal.
Green Salad: A light salad with citrus dressing complements the flavors wonderfully.

These combinations will help you create a balanced meal that’s sure to leave your friends and family impressed!

Conclusion on Cranberry Orange Chicken

In summary, Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines savory and tangy flavors for an unforgettable meal. Whether you're looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy dinner at home, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Serve it with rice or greens for a complete feast!

For more inspiration, check out similar recipes on Food Network or Epicurious.