Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe
Looking for a quick weeknight dinner? This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe is perfect! Sweet cranberries meet tangy orange in this dish.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Sharp knife
- Cutting Board
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 large orange zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- This helps create a golden crust.
- Don't skip this important step!
- Heat olive oil in your skillet.
- Add chicken breasts to the hot pan.
- Cook for 5 minutes on each side.
- They should turn golden brown.
- Remove and set aside temporarily.
- Add garlic to the same skillet.
- Cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cranberries, orange juice, and zest next.
- Pour in honey and chicken broth.
- Stir everything together well.
- Return chicken to the skillet now.
- Spoon sauce over the top generously.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- The chicken should reach 165°F internal temperature.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Spoon extra sauce over each piece.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides!
Notes
- Use fresh cranberries for best flavor.
- Frozen ones work in a pinch though.
- Don't overcook the chicken or it's dry.
- A meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness every time.
- Fresh orange juice tastes better than bottled.
- Pound thick chicken breasts for even cooking.
- Let the sauce reduce for richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- This gives a nice subtle heat.
- Garnish with fresh orange slices for presentation.