Are you craving a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors in a single dish? Look no further than our Easy Cranberry Chicken recipe! With tender chicken breasts smothered in a tangy cranberry sauce, this dish is a feast for the senses. Plus, we’ve included FAQs, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions to suit various dietary preferences. Let’s dive into the culinary adventure!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Coat the Chicken: Pour the cranberry sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the burst of flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Crockpot Method: Want to set it and forget it? Place seasoned chicken breasts in a slow cooker, pour the cranberry sauce mixture over them, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until tender.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cranberry sauce mixture.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus juices such as lemon or lime for a refreshing twist on the sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Swap the honey for a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Also, opt for a sugar-free cranberry sauce or make your own using fresh cranberries and a keto sweetener.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of cranberry sauce and orange juice to lower the carb content. You can also use a sugar-free orange-flavored drink mix for a lower-carb alternative to orange juice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly as bone-in cuts typically take longer to cook.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry sauce mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Then simply pour it over the chicken and bake as directed when you’re ready to enjoy.
Q: What can I serve with Cranberry Chicken? A: This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Elevate your dinner game with our Easy Cranberry Chicken recipe! With its tantalizing blend of sweet cranberry sauce and savory chicken, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a winner. Plus, with our keto and low-carb variations, everyone can indulge in the deliciousness. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every bite of this mouthwatering dish!
