Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh is best)
• 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Season and Sear Chicken:
   Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Cranberry Sauce:
   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in cranberries, orange juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, cinnamon, ginger, and orange zest. Let simmer until cranberries start to burst and sauce thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes).

3. Simmer Chicken in Sauce:
   Return chicken to skillet. Spoon sauce over chicken, cover, and simmer on low for 10–12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and tender.

4. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Serve with rice, couscous, or roasted veggies.