One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken – Amazing One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken Delight

Published:

by Mia

Leave a Comment

One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken
– One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken is the dish that will make your taste buds sing and your dinner guests swoon. Imagine succulent chicken breasts simmering in a tangy-sweet balsamic sauce, punctuated by tart cranberries that pop like tiny flavor bombs in your mouth. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is so intoxicating that even your cat might consider taking up gourmet dining.

Now, let me take you back to the first time I made this heavenly creation. It was a chilly evening, and I had friends over for dinner. After a rather disastrous attempt at cooking pasta (who knew it could clump?), I decided to whip up my secret weapon: One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken. The laughter around the table as we dug into this dish made me feel like a culinary rock star! Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing that special someone, this recipe guarantees smiles all around.

Jump to:

[love_box title=”Why You’ll Love This One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken”] This amazing One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table. Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing. [/love_box]

Ingredients for One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken

:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 chicken breasts so everyone has enough to enjoy.
  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor impact; nobody wants sad garlic.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: A good quality balsamic will elevate this dish beyond ordinary; think sweet yet tangy magic.
  • Cranberries: Whether fresh or dried, they add a delightful burst of tartness; grab whatever you can find!
  • Honey: For sweetness, honey will balance the acidity of the balsamic beautifully.
  • Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances the chicken’s juiciness while adding richness; extra virgin is best.
  • Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential! Seasoning brings everything together.

For the Sauce:

  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to maintain control over saltiness while enriching flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken

:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and chop the garlic finely. This ensures maximum flavor infusion during cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and sear them until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant (around one minute). Then pour in balsamic vinegar, honey, and chicken broth, scraping up any bits stuck at the bottom – that’s where all the flavor lies!

Step 4: Add Cranberries

Once the sauce simmers gently, toss in those lovely cranberries. Stir well and let them bubble away for about three minutes until they soften slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling them into that gorgeous sauce. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for about ten minutes until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer to plates and drizzle with leftover sauce for that perfect finishing touch! Consider garnishing with fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy.

Now that you’ve conquered this delightful One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken recipe, get ready to bask in compliments from friends or family – you’re basically a chef now! Enjoy every bite of those succulent chicken pieces bathed in sweet-tart goodness; after all, life is too short for boring dinners!

[love_box title=”You Must Know About One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken”] This amazing One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table. Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing. [/love_box]

Perfecting One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then remove it from the skillet. Prepare your balsamic cranberry sauce in the same pan, letting those flavors mingle. Finally, return the chicken to simmer in that delicious sauce for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch to One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even tofu if you’re feeling adventurous. Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth, or toss in some spinach for extra nutrients and color.

Storing & Reheating One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.

[love_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips for One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken”] This amazing One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table. Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.[/love_box]

To achieve perfect caramelization, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this prevents sticking and promotes a lovely crust.

Don’t rush the sauce! Allow it to simmer so that the flavors meld beautifully; this step is crucial for that signature taste.

Always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning with salt or a splash of vinegar can elevate your dish to gourmet status.

I once made this dish for friends during a casual dinner party, and they couldn’t stop raving about it! That night was filled with laughter and second helpings; I knew I had found a winner!

FAQs About One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken

What is One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken?

One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a tangy balsamic glaze and sweet cranberries. This recipe allows you to prepare an entire meal in just one skillet, ensuring minimal cleanup while still delivering maximum flavor. The balance of savory and sweet makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, the combination of fresh herbs and cranberries elevates the dish, giving it a festive touch.

How can I customize One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken?

You can easily customize One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting different proteins. For instance, consider using turkey or tofu for a variation. You may also add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrients and color. Adjust the sweetness by using more or fewer cranberries depending on your preference. Experimenting with spices such as garlic powder or onion powder can also enhance the flavors to suit your taste.

What should I serve with One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken?

Pairing sides with One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious balsamic sauce. For a lighter option, consider a fresh green salad tossed with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for added nutrition. Crusty bread also complements this dish nicely, allowing you to enjoy every drop of the flavorful sauce.

Can I make One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken ahead of time for convenience. Cook the chicken and sauce as directed, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Conclusion for One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken

In summary, One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that offers simplicity and taste all in one pan. Its delightful blend of tangy balsamic vinegar and sweet cranberries creates a unique flavor profile that pleases any palate. Whether you’re customizing it with different proteins and veggies or serving it with various sides, this recipe is sure to impress at any dinner table. Try making this dish today for a hassle-free culinary experience!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Savor the delightful combination of tender chicken breasts simmered in a tangy-sweet balsamic sauce with vibrant cranberries, perfect for any dinner occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients and mince the garlic.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in balsamic vinegar, honey, and chicken broth, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom.
  5. Stir in cranberries into the sauce. Allow it to simmer for about three minutes until softened.
  6. Return seared chicken to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and let simmer for about ten minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  7. Plate the chicken, drizzle with leftover sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star