Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever tasted a dish that instantly transported you to a festive celebration? Imagine succulent chicken, perfectly infused with the tartness of fresh cranberries, enveloped in the warm, inviting aroma of holiday spices. This Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts brings together vibrant flavors and textures, making it the star of your holiday table.
As you savor each bite, the juicy chicken melds beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberry sauce, creating a harmonious blend that delights the palate. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving gathering, a Christmas dinner, or an intimate New Year’s Eve celebration, this dish promises to become a cherished tradition. The anticipation builds as your guests experience the magic of this delightful recipe, leaving them eager for seconds and sharing stories around the table.
Key Ingredients For Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts
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 the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright red cranberries that are firm to touch; they add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener balances the tartness of cranberries; dark brown sugar adds even richer flavor.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
Fresh Thyme: Choose fragrant thyme sprigs; they provide an aromatic touch that complements the sweetness of cranberries.
For the Sauce:
Apple Cider Vinegar: This tangy ingredient brightens up the sauce and enhances all flavors in the dish.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control saltiness while adding depth to the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup.
Second Step : Season Your Chicken
Season each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance their natural flavors and create a savory base.
Third Step : Prepare The Cranberry Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine fresh cranberries, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well until everything is mixed thoroughly.
Fourth Step : Assemble The Dish
Place seasoned chicken breasts into your prepared baking dish. Pour the cranberry mixture evenly over each piece of chicken, ensuring they are well-coated.
Fifth Step : Bake Until Perfect
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining cranberry sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor infusion, marinate your chicken in cranberry sauce overnight before cooking.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme elevates this dish; consider adding rosemary or sage for additional layers of flavor.
Serve With Sides: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete festive feast.
Cooking Instructions
To prepare the Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onions and sauté until translucent. Then, stir in fresh cranberries and cook for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in chicken broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar, stirring to combine all flavors. Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is nestled among the cranberry mixture.
Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This step ensures that the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist.
Serving Suggestions
The Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts makes for an impressive centerpiece on any holiday table. Here are some delightful ways to serve it:
Over a bed of wild rice: The nutty flavor complements the tartness of cranberries perfectly.
With roasted vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes make for colorful accompaniments.
With a drizzle of balsamic glaze: This adds an extra layer of sweetness that enhances the dish’s overall appeal.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers from your Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts, store them properly to maintain freshness. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, this dish can last up to three days in the fridge.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently in an oven or microwave.
Nutritional Information
This Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts is not only delicious but also provides several nutritional benefits. Each serving contains lean protein from chicken and antioxidants from fresh cranberries. The combination supports heart health while providing essential vitamins.
To enhance its nutritional value further, consider adding a side salad rich in greens or whole grains like quinoa or farro. This addition boosts fiber intake and rounds out your meal beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries work well in this Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts. They do not need prior thawing; just add them straight into your skillet during cooking. However, keep in mind that they may release more moisture than fresh cranberries, so you might need to adjust cooking times slightly.
What can I substitute for chicken if I’m looking for a vegetarian option?
For a vegetarian version of this Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts, consider using tofu or tempeh as substitutes. Both options absorb flavors well and mimic protein content found in chicken. Cook them similarly by searing first before adding cranberries and sauce ingredients.
How spicy is this dish?
The Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts is designed to be mild but flavorful. If you prefer some heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes when sautéing onions or include sliced jalapeños with your cranberries! Adjust according to personal taste preferences.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts can be prepared ahead of time without sacrificing flavor or texture. Simply follow all cooking instructions up until baking; then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving to ensure optimal freshness!
Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe for Festive Feasts
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This Fresh Cranberry Chicken Recipe is a delightful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. Juicy chicken breasts are enveloped in a luscious cranberry sauce, perfectly balancing sweet and tangy flavors. With aromatic herbs and festive spices, this dish will not only impress your guests but also become a beloved tradition at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a medium bowl, mix together cranberries, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and chicken broth until well combined.
- Place seasoned chicken in the baking dish and pour the cranberry mixture over the top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approximately 180g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
