Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken: 7 Simple Steps to Delight

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Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. This easy skillet dish combines the delightful flavors of tender chicken with a tangy orange and cranberry sauce, making it the perfect meal for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With only a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this incredible dish in just 35 minutes. Let’s dive into this delicious and healthy recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken

This recipe is not only simple but also packed with flavor. Here are some reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy option with boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Sweet and tangy flavor from fresh orange juice and cranberries.
Perfectly gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
One-pan dish means minimal cleanup.
Can be served with a variety of sides for a complete meal.
Impressive enough for guests but simple for everyday cooking.
Great for meal prep, making it a convenient choice.

This Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken recipe is not only a comforting dish but also a nutritious option that fits within an American diet.

Ingredients for Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken

Gather these items:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Zest of 1 orange
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the orange juice, cranberries, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and orange zest. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Step 7: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Irresistible Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken served with fresh parsley on top

Pro Tips for the Perfect Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken

Keep these in mind:

The combination of juicy chicken and a sweet-tart sauce is irresistible.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in orange juice for a few hours before cooking.
Serve this dish over rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
Use fresh cranberries whenever possible for the best taste, but frozen cranberries work well too.

Best Ways to Serve Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken

This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways:

Pair with steamed vegetables for a healthy option.
Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa to enhance the meal.
Accompany with a side salad for a refreshing touch.

How to Store and Reheat Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This makes for a great quick orange cranberry chicken meal for lunch or dinner during the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken?

The secret lies in balancing the sweet and tart flavors of the sauce while ensuring the chicken is cooked just right. Using fresh ingredients enhances the overall taste.

Can I make Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, storing them separately. Simply reheat and combine before serving for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken?

Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken to ensure even cooking. Also, watch the sauce closely to prevent burning.

Variations of Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Try using different citrus juices such as lemon or grapefruit for a unique twist.
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Delicious Skillet Orange Cranberry Chicken served with rice and vegetables

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs or French Onion Chicken Bake. If you’re looking for a comforting dessert, try Cannoli Cream Sandwich Cookies!

For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, you can visit Healthline.