Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken is a dish that dances on your palate, bursting with tartness and sweetness, creating a symphony of flavors. Imagine juicy chicken enveloped in a glossy cranberry glaze, tantalizing your senses with every bite.
This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, bringing warmth and joy to the table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The simplicity of this Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken makes it a weeknight hero.
- It combines unexpected flavors that will impress your guests while keeping meal prep easy.
- The vibrant colors are sure to brighten any plate, making it visually appealing for special occasions.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any side dish you have on hand!
Ingredients for Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts depending on how many hungry mouths you’ll be feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves for maximum flavor; they really elevate the dish.
For the Sauce:
- Cranberry Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade; both work well but aim for something with whole berries for texture.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still packing a flavor punch.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic adds depth and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Brown Sugar: This gives the glaze that sweet caramelization that makes your taste buds sing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grab a baking dish and give it a spritz of nonstick cooking spray so your chicken doesn’t stick like an uninvited guest at a party.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts in the baking dish. Generously season them with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy; think of it as giving your chicken some love!
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine cranberry sauce, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir until well mixed; this glaze is going to be your chicken’s best friend.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Pour that beautiful glaze over the seasoned chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is fully coated—no one likes a lonely chicken breast without its glaze buddy!
Step 5: Bake
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Your kitchen will start to smell like heaven!
Step 6: Serve
Once done, take out the chicken and transfer it to plates. Drizzle some extra glaze from the baking dish over each piece for that finishing touch! Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
There you have it! Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress anyone who dares take a bite. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of honey, creating a delightful balance that elevates your dinner.
- It’s simple to prepare and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in a hot pan until golden brown. While it cooks, whisk together the cranberry glaze ingredients. Once the chicken is seared, pour the glaze over and let it simmer for juicy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for other fruits like apricots or cherries. Add spices like cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick. You can also toss in some nuts for crunch or serve it over rice for a complete meal.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cranberries when possible for maximum flavor impact.
- Avoid crowding the pan while searing to achieve that coveted golden crust.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy and tender.
I remember one Thanksgiving when I decided to surprise my family with this Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken instead of turkey; they still talk about how delicious it was! homemade sourdough croutons.
FAQs :
What is Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken?
Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful cranberry glaze. The glaze usually consists of fresh or canned cranberries, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and spices. This dish balances sweet and tangy flavors, making it a perfect entrée for holiday gatherings or family dinners. delicious grilled chicken burrito The chicken becomes juicy and flavorful as it absorbs the rich cranberry sauce during cooking. You can serve this dish with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I make the cranberry glaze for this chicken recipe?
To create the perfect glaze for Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken, start by simmering fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar in a saucepan until the berries burst. Then, add balsamic vinegar and seasonings like garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook until it thickens slightly. This glaze not only adds flavor but also gives the chicken a beautiful glossy finish when brushed on before baking or grilling. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta and cranberries recipe.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can certainly adapt Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken by using other meats like turkey or pork. Each meat brings its unique flavor profile that pairs well with the cranberry glaze. If you choose turkey, ensure it cooks thoroughly to avoid dryness. For pork, consider using tender cuts like loin or chops to maintain juiciness while enjoying the sweet and tangy flavors of the glaze. For more inspiration, check out this easy baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.
What side dishes pair well with Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken?
When serving Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken, consider pairing it with side dishes that complement its flavors. Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or carrots work wonderfully alongside the dish. Additionally, creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice can absorb the delicious glaze while adding texture to your meal. tasty roasted garlic kale salad A fresh salad with greens can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Conclusion for Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken :
Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken is an exquisite dish that offers a delightful balance of flavors. The combination of juicy chicken with a tangy-sweet cranberry glaze makes it an ideal choice for various occasions. Preparing this dish is straightforward yet rewarding; simply follow the steps to create a flavorful meal that impresses your guests. festive berry trifle cups Whether you serve it with roasted vegetables or fluffy rice, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household!
Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances tart and sweet flavors, making it an excellent choice for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a rich cranberry glaze, creating a beautiful presentation that will impress family and friends alike. This easy-to-make recipe elevates any gathering with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then place them in the baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cranberry sauce, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar until well mixed.
- Pour the glaze over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve with additional glaze drizzled on top alongside your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
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