Bask in the perfect balance of sweet and savory with this Cranberry Chicken or Pork recipe, an easy yet impressive main dish that's bursting with seasonal flavor. Tender chicken breasts or pork chops are pan-seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a rich, tangy sauce made from whole cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, and just a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. Infused with aromatic garlic and optional fresh rosemary, this dish delivers a gourmet-inspired taste with minimal effort. Ready in just 35 minutes, itβs an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings alike. Serve it over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for lovers of comforting, flavor-packed dishes!
Season the chicken breasts or pork chops on both sides with salt and black pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken or pork and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and rosemary (if using). SautΓ© for 1 minute until fragrant.
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the cranberry sauce, chicken or vegetable broth, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Mix well to combine.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and return the chicken or pork to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the sauce.
Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken or pork reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C). Flip the meat halfway through to coat both sides with the sauce.
Once cooked, remove the meat from the skillet and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Meanwhile, let the sauce simmer uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Serve the chicken or pork smothered in the cranberry sauce. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Calories |
1371 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 42.9 g | 55% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.4 g | 42% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 340 mg | 113% | |
| Sodium | 3102 mg | 135% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 116.4 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.1 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 101.5 g | ||
| Protein | 125.6 g | 251% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 101 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 5.0 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 1238 mg | 26% | |
*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.