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Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken: A Juicy One-Pan Delight

This Cranberry Orange Chicken is an impressive one-pan meal that balances sweet and tart flavors in just 40 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Chicken Thighs Juicy and rich in flavor; Substitution: Chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Aids in browning the chicken and enhances moisture retention.
For the Marinade
  • 2 cups Fresh Cranberries Adds tartness and festive color; Substitution: Thawed frozen cranberries work if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1/2 cup Honey Provides sweetness and moisture; Substitution: Use maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Caramelizes the chicken, enhancing overall flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar Adds tang and depth to the marinade.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Infuses savory notes into your glaze.
  • 1 large Orange Zested and juiced; Fresh is preferred over bottled orange juice.
For Garnish
  • 1/2 cup Additional Fresh Cranberries Offers a pop of color and festive appeal on the plate.
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest Enhances flavor and presentation, making your dish vibrantly inviting.

Equipment

  • Food Processor
  • Baking Pan
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Chicken
  1. In a food processor, combine fresh cranberries, brown sugar, olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, orange juice, orange zest, salt, and pepper. Blend the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  2. Transfer the chicken thighs to a large zipper bag or dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a greased 8x8-inch baking pan. Pour the residual marinade over the chicken and scatter some additional cranberries. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 155°F.
  4. For crispy skin, mix together a tablespoon of honey and olive oil. After baking, brush this mixture over the thighs, switch your oven to broil, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  5. Once broiling is complete, remove the chicken and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with extra fresh cranberries and orange zest before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure fresh orange juice and zest are used for the best flavor; marinate for at least two hours or overnight for optimal taste.

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