Cranberry Orange Chicken (Printable Version)

Tender chicken with cranberries and zesty orange in a savory-sweet sauce, ready in just 40 minutes and perfect for any occasion.

# Ingredients:

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
02 - 1 cup fresh cranberries
03 - 1 large orange, zested and juiced
04 - 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
06 - 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
07 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, or 1/2 teaspoon dried
08 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
09 - 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
10 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
11 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Rub the chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs. Let it rest while preparing other ingredients.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Cook the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, cook the garlic until fragrant. Add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the cranberries burst.
04 - Return the chicken to the skillet, add chicken broth, and scrape the bottom of the pan. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
05 - Top the chicken with the sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs or additional orange zest before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Chicken breasts or thighs can be used, depending on preference.
02 - The sauce can be prepared ahead of time.
03 - Optional ingredients such as balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard add an extra depth of flavor.