Cranberry Orange Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of oranges. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, whether you’re having a family dinner or hosting friends. The combination of flavors is refreshing, and the bright colors make it visually appealing. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Orange slices for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in a baking dish.
4. Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
6. Garnish with orange slices before serving. Enjoy your heartwarming Cranberry Orange Chicken!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken can be served over rice or with a side of mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a healthy meal. The vibrant colors of the dish make it great for family gatherings or special dinners.

How to Store Cranberry Orange Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

• Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly coated with the sauce for the best flavor.
• If you want a bit more spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Feel free to use fresh cranberries if you have them available. Just blend them into a sauce with sugar before using.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe by adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the baking dish. This will not only add flavor but also make the dish more colorful and nutritious. Additionally, for a citrusy twist, you can substitute lime juice for orange juice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure they are completely thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can use skinless chicken breasts and reduce the amount of brown sugar for a lighter version. Substitute low-sugar cranberry sauce for an added health benefit.

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