When the holiday season rolls around, I find myself yearning for dishes that capture the spirit of celebration while being quick and easy to prepare. That’s where my Skillet Cranberry Chicken comes into play! Picture this: tender chicken nestled in a luscious, glossy cranberry sauce, perfectly balancing sweet honey and tart cranberries. The aroma fills my kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
This dish is not just about incredible flavors; it’s about creating memorable moments. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply treating your family to something special, this one-pan wonder has you covered. In under 30 minutes, you can serve up a vibrant meal that not only warms the heart but also delights the taste buds. Plus, you can easily swap in chicken thighs or pork chops to customize it to your liking!
So, if you’re searching for satisfying Christmas dinner ideas that elevate your holiday celebrations without the fuss, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Skillet Cranberry Chicken your go-to dish?
This Skillet Cranberry Chicken is the star of any holiday gathering!
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy festive evenings.
- Bold Flavor: The sweet-and-tart cranberry sauce elevates the dish, making every bite a celebration.
- Versatile Swaps: Easily substitute with chicken thighs or pork chops to suit your tastes.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup while maximizing flavor, leaving more time for holiday cheer!
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for both intimate family dinners and larger gatherings, leaving everyone satisfied!
Embark on a flavor-filled holiday journey with this delightful recipe!
Skillet Cranberry Chicken Ingredients
• Curiosity Tip: You won’t believe how easy this festive dish is!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Main protein; easily substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or pork chops for a richer taste.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Perfect for searing and adds a lovely richness to the dish.
- Shallots – These add sweetness and depth when caramelized, enhancing flavor.
- Chicken Stock – This serves as a flavorful base for the sauce; opt for low-sodium if preferred.
- Orange Juice – Provides bright acidity that balances the sauce beautifully.
- Honey – Offers a hint of sweetness to complement the tart cranberries.
- Balsamic Vinegar – Adds a layer of tanginess, enriching the overall flavor profile.
- Cranberries – The star ingredient for the sauce; essential for that holiday theme.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Basic seasoning to enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Fresh Rosemary – An aromatic herb that brings warmth and earthiness to the chicken and sauce.
Create an unforgettable Skillet Cranberry Chicken that will make your Christmas dinner ideas shine!
How to Make Skillet Cranberry Chicken
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Preheat oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F, ensuring the perfect environment for a juicy chicken finish.
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Heat oil: In an oven-safe skillet, pour in some olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering and ready for the chicken.
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Sear chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper, then place them in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4 minutes until they turn golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Caramelize shallots: If necessary, add a touch more olive oil to the skillet, then add shallots cut-side down. Cook for a few minutes until they are beautifully caramelized and fragrant.
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Whisk sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together chicken stock, orange juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and chopped rosemary until well combined.
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Combine ingredients: Return the caramelized shallots to the skillet, pour the prepared sauce over them, and bring to a gentle boil for about 1 minute.
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Bake chicken: Add cranberries, the seared chicken, and the shallots back to the skillet, then transfer it to the oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Serve: Allow the Skillet Cranberry Chicken to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this vibrant dish with your loved ones!
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Skillet Cranberry Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can sear the chicken and prepare the glossy cranberry sauce up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, follow the initial steps of searing the chicken and creating the sauce, then store both in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the chicken juicy and the sauce flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the ingredients in an oven-safe skillet, add the cranberries, and bake as directed for about 15 minutes. This way, you’ll have a stunning holiday meal on the table with minimal effort, just as delicious and vibrant!
What to Serve with Skillet Cranberry Chicken?
Transform your delightful cranberry chicken into a full holiday meal that warms hearts and fills bellies.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture absorbs the tangy sauce, enhancing the dish’s rich flavors while adding a comforting element to your plate.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly charred, earthy taste complements the sweet cranberries, providing a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Imagine their crispness against the juicy chicken!
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Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty and fluffy grain offers a light yet satisfying contrast, making every bite a wholesome experience, perfect for soaking up those precious cranberry juices.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy loaf is delightful for mopping up the luscious sauce from the chicken, making it a crowd favorite at the dinner table.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, sweet treat will round out your meal beautifully. The spiced apples provide a seasonal sweetness that ties everything together wonderfully.
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Mulled Wine: This spiced drink enhances the festive atmosphere while complementing your vibrant chicken with its warm, aromatic flavors.
Skillet Cranberry Chicken Variations
Feel inspired to make this recipe uniquely yours!
- Thyme Twist: Swap fresh rosemary for fresh thyme for a different herbal note that complements the cranberry sauce beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the sauce for a delightful heat that brightens the dish.
- Apple Addition: Toss in diced apples alongside the cranberries for a sweet crunch that enhances the holiday flavors.
- Citrus Zing: Use lemon or lime juice instead of orange juice to add a lively twist and brighten the sauce.
- Nuts for Texture: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans over the finished dish for a lovely crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with roasted zucchini or eggplant, and use vegetable stock for a hearty plant-based version. This adaptation is still bursting with flavor!
- Savory Balance: Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard into the sauce for a creamy, tangy depth that plays well with the sweetness.
- Whole Grain Base: Serve over quinoa or farro instead of rice for an earthy twist on texture and added nutritional value.
Let your creativity shine and enjoy every unique bite!
How to Store and Freeze Skillet Cranberry Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Skillet Cranberry Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce has thickened. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your holiday meal again!
Expert Tips for Skillet Cranberry Chicken
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Sear Properly: Ensure chicken is patted dry before seasoning to achieve that beautiful golden crust while searing.
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Sauce Thickness: For a richer sauce, bring the sauce to a boil before adding the chicken to allow it to thicken beautifully.
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Oven-Safe Skillet: Use a cast iron or stainless steel skillet to easily transition from stovetop to oven without losing any flavor.
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Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to add more honey or balsamic vinegar to suit your taste preferences, enhancing the sweet-and-tart balance in your Skillet Cranberry Chicken.
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Proper Timing: If substituting proteins, check cooking times regularly and ensure each protein reaches the safe internal temperature to avoid undercooked dinner ideas.
Skillet Cranberry Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender and quick cook, you can easily swap them for chicken thighs or even pork chops. Chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor and juicier texture, perfect for those who prefer dark meat.
How do I know when the cranberries are ripe?
Very! Look for plump, firm cranberries that are deep red in color without any dark spots or shriveling. Avoid any that appear mushy or have a dull, wrinkled skin, as these are likely past their prime.
How should I store leftovers?
For sure! Store your Skillet Cranberry Chicken leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation and maintain the dish’s texture.
Can I freeze Skillet Cranberry Chicken?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will remain good for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently over low heat.
What if the sauce is too thin after baking?
No worries! If you find your sauce is thinner than desired, you can thicken it easily. Simply ladle some of the sauce into a small pan and simmer it on the stove over medium heat for a few minutes until it reduces and thickens. Then pour it back over your chicken when serving.
Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating allergies, you can make this dish gluten-free by ensuring your chicken stock is gluten-free. For a lower sugar version, consider reducing the amount of honey or substituting it with a natural sweetener like stevia. However, be sure to adapt quantities based on taste, as everyone’s preferences vary!
Skillet Cranberry Chicken: Perfect Christmas Dinner Idea
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then sear each side for about 4 minutes until golden brown and set aside.
- Add shallots cut-side down to the skillet, cooking until caramelized and fragrant.
- Whisk together chicken stock, orange juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and rosemary until combined.
- Return shallots to the skillet, pour sauce over, and bring to a gentle boil for about 1 minute.
- Add cranberries and chicken back to the skillet, transfer to the oven, and bake for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!