why make this recipe
Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of oranges. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want a flavorful and healthy meal. It is easy to prepare and uses fresh ingredients, making it a great choice for any cook. Plus, the vibrant colors of the dish make it a feast for the eyes!
how to make Cranberry Orange Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 orange, juiced and zested
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in a baking dish.
- Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm.
how to serve Cranberry Orange Chicken
Cranberry Orange Chicken is best served warm right out of the oven. You can enjoy it with a side of rice, couscous, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It can also be paired with a light salad for a refreshing touch. Drizzling some extra orange juice on top just before serving adds a burst of flavor!
how to store Cranberry Orange Chicken
To store any leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken, let it cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Cranberry Orange Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the cranberry-orange mixture for an hour before baking.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the amount of brown sugar to your liking.
- You can add chopped onions or garlic to the cranberry mixture for more depth of flavor.
- Use fresh cranberries for a more vibrant taste, but frozen cranberries work well too.
variation
For a twist on this recipe, you might try adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch. You can also replace the chicken with turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian option.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take a bit longer.
2. Is it okay to use bottled orange juice?
While fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled orange juice can be used if you are in a pinch.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry-orange mixture and marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just bake it fresh before serving for the best taste.
Cranberry Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries Fresh cranberries recommended for vibrant taste
- 1 whole orange, juiced and zested Fresh juice enhances flavor
- 1/4 cup brown sugar Adjust for sweetness preference
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in a baking dish.
- Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the chicken.
Cooking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
