Irresistible Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Flavor Lovers

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by Emma Taylor

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The moment you catch a whiff of this Cranberry Chicken recipe bubbling away in the oven, your taste buds will start dancing like they just won the lottery. Imagine succulent chicken drenched in a sweet-tart cranberry sauce, with hints of garlic and herbs that create a symphony of flavors on your palate. cozy fall pumpkin bars It’s the kind of dish that makes even the pickiest eaters come back for seconds—or thirds if you’re lucky. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.

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Growing up, our family gatherings always featured some version of cranberry chicken, bringing everyone together with its irresistible aroma. Whether it was Thanksgiving or a random Tuesday, this dish never failed to spark joy and laughter around the dinner table. I promise you’ll be counting down the minutes until it’s ready to serve, making your kitchen smell like a gourmet restaurant! For more inspiration, check out this Coconut Macaroon Nests recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delightful Cranberry Chicken recipe is a cinch to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
  • The flavor combination of sweet cranberries and savory chicken will leave your guests impressed
  • Garnished with fresh herbs, it looks stunning on any table
  • Versatile enough to serve with rice, pasta, or veggies, it fits any meal plan

I once made this dish for a potluck dinner and watched my friends fight over the last piece—definitely a sign of success!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
  • Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade or store-bought; both work well! Just make sure it’s not too chunky.
  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; minced garlic brings out amazing aromas.
  • Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness; it’s a smart choice for balancing flavors.
  • Dijon Mustard: Adds depth and tanginess; feel free to swap with yellow mustard if that’s what you have.
  • Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil keeps everything moist and adds richness.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that help enhance all the flavors in your dish.
  • Fresh Herbs (like Parsley or Thyme): Adds freshness and color; use whatever herbs you have on hand!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an even cooking temperature so your chicken turns out perfectly juicy.

Prepare the Chicken: In a baking dish, arrange the boneless chicken breasts in one layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper for added flavor.

Create the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine cranberry sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Stir until fully blended—the colors should be vibrant and inviting!

Coat Chicken with Sauce: Pour the cranberry mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is generously coated. The sauce will bubble around them as they cook!

Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Add Fresh Herbs Before Serving: Once cooked through, take out your dish and sprinkle freshly chopped herbs on top for that extra pop of color and flavor before serving.

This Cranberry Chicken recipe will soon become one of your go-to meals. The combination of sweet and savory flavors paired with tender chicken creates an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy! savory cranberry and brie tartlets.

You Must Know

  • This delightful cranberry chicken recipe combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser
  • The vibrant colors and aromas will elevate any dinner table
  • Pair it with rice or veggies for a complete meal, and watch your family cheer!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in juices, then simmer with cranberries for flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for other fruits like apricots, or add herbs for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to keep moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To ensure your cranberry chicken is a hit, always use fresh ingredients for the best taste
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken; it should remain juicy and tender
  • Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra flavor boost!

Sharing this cranberry chicken recipe reminds me of my cousin’s wedding. Everyone raved about how delicious it was, and I took home an empty platter! fruitcake cookies for the holidays. peppermint hot chocolate cookies.

FAQ

What can I serve with cranberry chicken?

Pair this dish with rice or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Can I freeze leftover cranberry chicken?

Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cranberry Chicken Recipe

Cranberry Chicken


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  • Author: Emma Taylor
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Cranberry Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a sweet-tart cranberry sauce, creating an irresistible flavor profile. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, as it requires minimal preparation and bursts with deliciousness. The aromatic blend of garlic and fresh herbs enhances the overall experience, making it a family favorite. Serve this vibrant dish alongside rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that will impress your guests.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley or thyme), chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a bowl, mix the cranberry sauce, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined.
  4. Pour the cranberry mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  6. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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