Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this irresistible Caramelized Cranberry Chicken recipe that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite. Succulent seared chicken breasts are smothered in a glossy cranberry glaze made with fresh cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, and a hint of soy sauce for umami depth. The magic happens in just one skillet, where the cranberries caramelize beautifully, creating a vibrant and mouthwatering sauce that clings to every juicy piece of chicken. With a prep time of only 15 minutes and a total cook time under 30 minutes, this quick and easy dish is perfect for busy nights while being elegant enough for entertaining. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or fluffy rice, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a dish thatβs as stunning as it is delicious. Keywords: caramelized cranberry chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, skillet chicken recipe, tangy cranberry sauce, quick weeknight meals.
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and a pinch of ground black pepper. Set aside.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and the remaining black pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sautΓ© for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add fresh cranberries to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cranberries begin to soften and pop.
Pour the honey-balsamic mixture into the skillet, stirring to coat the cranberries evenly. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the cranberry sauce over the top. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165Β°F/74Β°C).
Remove the skillet from heat and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Serve hot alongside roasted vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
Calories |
1897 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 64.8 g | 83% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.7 g | 88% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 624 mg | 208% | |
| Sodium | 3547 mg | 154% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 100.5 g | 37% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.0 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 79.9 g | ||
| Protein | 219.1 g | 438% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 149 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 8.5 mg | 47% | |
| Potassium | 2170 mg | 46% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.