Winter nights make me want to cook warm, cozy meals. I found a great recipe for skillet cranberry orange chicken. It made my kitchen smell amazing with sweet and savory smells.
This recipe uses fresh cranberries and oranges. It made a simple weeknight meal special. Even my friends loved it!
The chicken was juicy and tender. It soaked up the tangy sauce perfectly. This dish is perfect for the season.
What You Need for Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
To make a tasty skillet dinner, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients make the dish special. Here are the main things you need for Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken. We also have substitutions for different diets or tastes.
Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 24 oz, typically four pieces)
- Whole berry cranberry sauce (1 cup)
- Freshly squeezed orange juice (1/2 cup)
- Sweet onion (1/3 cup, chopped)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Butter (1 tablespoon)
- Seasoned salt (1/4 teaspoon)
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon)
Substitutions for Common Ingredients
Substitutions can keep the flavor good. Here are some options:
- Chicken thighs are juicier than breasts.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Fresh cranberries are great instead of sauce. Cook them with honey and spices for a homemade taste.
Using these ingredients and substitutions makes the recipe easy to make. Remember the flavors to make a dish that will wow everyone.
The Benefits of a One-Pan Skillet Dinner
Cooking can feel overwhelming, like on busy weeknights. A one-pan dinner makes things easier. It’s great for anyone wanting to make cooking simpler.
Easy Clean-Up
One-pan dinners are easy to clean up. You only need one skillet for the whole meal. This means fewer dishes to wash.
Less dishes mean more time to relax. It’s a big plus after dinner.
Quick Cooking Time
This skillet cranberry orange chicken cooks fast, in about 35 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights. You can make a tasty meal quickly.
| Cooking Stage | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
One-pan dinners are not just practical. They also taste great. And they don’t take long to cook. It’s a win-win for everyone!
How to Make Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken from Scratch
Making skillet cranberry orange chicken is easy and fun. This guide helps you cook like a pro. You’ll have a tasty meal ready in about 35 minutes.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
First, get your ingredients ready. You’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos
- 1 orange (for juice and zest)
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Prep time is just 5 minutes. Season the chicken with salt, onion powder, and garlic powder. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
When hot, add the chicken. Sear each side for 10-12 minutes. Cook until it’s golden brown and the inside is 165°F.
Step-by-Step Visual Guide
After cooking the chicken, remove it and keep it warm. In the same skillet, add chicken broth, coconut aminos, orange juice, and zest. Bring it to a simmer.
Add the cranberries and broccoli. Cook for about 10 minutes. This lets the cranberries burst and the broccoli get tender.
Put the chicken back in the skillet. Let it soak in the flavors. Serve the skillet cranberry orange chicken hot. It’s perfect for gatherings, serving 7-8 people.
Transforming Leftover Cranberry Sauce into a Delicious Dish
Leftover cranberry sauce is often ignored after holidays. But it can make meals tasty. It’s great in savory dishes, snacks, and desserts.
Creative Uses for Holiday Leftovers
- Smoothies: Add cranberry sauce to your smoothies for a tangy taste.
- Cranberry Butter: Mix cranberry sauce with butter, orange zest, and almond extract for a tasty spread.
- Meatballs: Mix cranberry sauce with chili sauce for tasty meatballs at parties.
- Sandwich Spread: Mix mayonnaise and cranberry sauce for a creamy sandwich filling.
- Cranberry Streusel Bars: Use leftover sauce in a shortbread crust for a sweet treat.
Tips for Storing and Reusing Cranberry Sauce
Storing leftover cranberry sauce right is key. Keep it in an airtight container for 10 to 14 days in the fridge. Always check it before using. You can also freeze it for longer use.
Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Variations
Cooking is all about trying new things. Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a favorite that can be changed in many ways. You can make it gluten-free or use different chicken cuts to change the taste and feel.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
It’s easy to make this dish gluten-free. Use gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce. Make sure the chicken broth you use is gluten-free too. You can also try gluten-free bouillon instead of regular seasonings.
Using Different Cuts of Chicken
Choosing the right chicken can make a big difference. I usually use bone-in, skin-on thighs. But you can also try boneless breasts or pork chops. Each cut cooks differently, so watch the time. You’ll get a different feel with each try.
Flavor Profile of Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
The Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a treat for your taste buds. It mixes sweet and savory in a way that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The tart cranberries and zesty orange juice create a perfect balance.
Each bite is a mix of sweet mandarin oranges and savory chicken. This mix is inviting for everyone to enjoy.
Sweet and Savory Flavor Combinations
Getting the right mix of sweet and savory is key. In this recipe, cranberries and mandarin oranges add sweetness. Soy sauce and ginger bring savory flavors.
Cashews add a nice crunch. This mix of flavors makes every bite rich and interesting.
The Role of Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Orange juice, cranberries, and chicken all add to the dish’s flavor. They make the meal taste better and be healthier.
For me, using fresh ingredients makes a huge difference. They bring out the best flavors and make the dish more vibrant.
| Ingredient | Contribution to Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Cranberries | Tartness complements the sweetness |
| Mandarin Oranges | Natural sweetness and citrusy notes |
| Fresh Ginger | Warm spice, adding depth |
| Fresh Chicken | Savory base and rich protein |
| Cashews | Creamy texture and nutty flavor |
| Fresh Herbs | Aromatics that enhance overall freshness |
Serving Suggestions for Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
Looking for the best ways to serve Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken? I love trying different sides and meals. They make the chicken taste even better and create special moments.
Ideal Side Dishes to Pair With
Here are some great side dishes:
- Rustic Yukon Gold mashed potatoes
- Maple sriracha glazed Brussels sprouts
- Spinach pear Gorgonzola salad
These sides add to the chicken’s flavor. They bring different textures and tastes. This makes the dish more interesting.
Complete Meal Ideas
Adding Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken to a full meal is fun. It’s perfect for big gatherings or cozy dinners. Here are some ideas:
| Meal Idea | Main Dish | Side Dishes | Drink Pairing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter Feast | Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken | Rustic Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal veggies | Mulled wine |
| Family Gathering | Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken | Maple sriracha glazed Brussels sprouts, corn casserole | Apple cider |
| Intimate Dinner | Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken | Spinach pear Gorgonzola salad, garlic bread | Sauvignon Blanc |
These meal ideas are great for any event. They show how versatile the chicken is. They make every meal special.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken
Cooking chicken right means watching the time and temperature. It’s key to get the chicken to 165 degrees Fahrenheit inside. This makes it safe and keeps it juicy and tasty. Here are some tips to make your chicken dish better, so it’s tender and crispy.
The Importance of Cook Time and Temperature
Getting the cooking time right is very important for chicken. For bone-in, skin-on thighs, use a hot oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. First, sear each piece in a skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side. Then, bake them in the oven for 15-20 minutes to cook fully.
Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should be 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.
How to Achieve Crispy Chicken
To get crispy chicken, start with the skin. Dry the chicken with paper towels before cooking. Searing it in hot oil makes the skin crispy and keeps the juices in.
After searing, bake the chicken in the oven. This helps the skin get even crisper. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes is also key. It makes the flavors mix well, making every bite delicious.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Winter
When it gets cold, I love to cook warm meals. Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is perfect for winter. It uses fresh cranberries and oranges, making it tasty and cozy.
Seasonal Ingredients and Flavors
This recipe uses the best of winter. Cranberries add a tangy taste, while orange juice is sweet. Together, they make a flavor that feels like winter.
Spices like ginger and thyme add warmth. They make the dish feel cozy and inviting.
Creating a Cozy Meal Experience
I make the meal special with soft lights and music. The smell of cooking chicken fills the house. It makes everyone want to come to the table.
It’s more than food; it’s a time to connect. Serve it with mashed potatoes or bread for a truly cozy meal.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 lbs |
| Fresh cranberries | 12 oz |
| Fresh orange juice | 3/4 cup |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1/3 cup |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
| Ground ginger | 3/4 tsp |
| Allspice | 1/4 tsp |
| Ground thyme | 1/2 tsp |
| Serving temperature | 165°F |
| Calories per serving | 407 kcal |
| Protein per serving | 49 g |
| Carbohydrates per serving | 21 g |
Final Thoughts on Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
Skillet cranberry orange chicken is both simple and fancy. It uses Nutrafarms chicken thighs and a sauce of cranberries and orange juice. It’s great for any meal.
This dish is easy to make. It takes just 30 minutes to impress everyone. Marinating the chicken makes it taste better. Browning and simmering fill the kitchen with a yummy smell.
Adding skillet cranberry orange chicken to your cooking is a smart move. It’s made with seasonal ingredients and tastes amazing. It’s loved by teenagers and families. Try it and see how delicious it is.
