Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken: A Delightful One-Pan Meal

If you’re looking for a dish that marries festive flavors with simplicity, look no further than Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken. This dish combines the tartness of cranberries, the zest of fresh oranges, and the heartiness of chicken, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare, requiring just one pan for cooking, which means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Sear the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
  2. Remove the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

  1. Add the Cranberries: In the same skillet, add the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey (or maple syrup), garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Simmer the Sauce: Let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will burst and create a sweet-tart sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  1. Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the chicken back in the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and flavors meld together.
  2. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

Step 5: Dish it Out!

Serve your Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. The vibrant colors and flavors are sure to impress your family or guests. This dish not only looks appealing but is packed with nutrients, making it a balanced meal option.

Tips for Variation

  • Add Vegetables: For an extra dimension of flavor and nutrition, consider adding some spinach, kale, or green beans to the skillet in the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a touch of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the sauce.
  • Switch the Protein: Try using turkey breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful option that brings together the brightness of citrus and the comforting familiarity of chicken in one easy dish. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday gathering or simply want to whip up something flavorful on a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy this one-pan wonder tonight!