Description
Cranberry Thyme Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavor of pan-seared chicken breasts with a rich, tangy cranberry sauce. Infused with fresh thyme and a hint of orange, this recipe is not only perfect for holiday gatherings but also makes for an impressive weeknight dinner. The tender chicken, enveloped in a vibrant sauce, brings together sweetness and tartness that will tantalize your taste buds. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine cranberries, sugar, chicken broth, and orange juice. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until cranberries burst.
- Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry; add to sauce and stir until thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it in the sauce and top with thyme sprigs.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internally. Garnish with remaining thyme before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg