Name: Easy Apple Cranberry Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen); 1 cup apple (diced, use your preferred variety); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon thyme (dried); 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 cup chicken broth (low-sodium); 2 tablespoons honey; 0.25 cup onion (chopped); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

What’s a weekly hero dish? Easy Apple Cranberry Chicken. What is that sweet and savory thing going on that’s completely irresistible? What was your Thanksgiving dinner like? Is this one a keeper? I remember the first time I made it, my husband (who isn’t always the biggest fan of “fruity”). What do you think of the chicken dishes? What are the leftovers from my kids? If you love the idea of a one-pan wonder that’s both healthy and packed with flavor, you’re going to love this.How do I make easy apple cranberry chicken?.

What is easy apple cranberry chicken?

What are some of the best easy apple cranberry chicken recipes? What is essentially juicy chicken breasts simmered in a ridiculously flavorful sauce made with apples? cranberries, and a touch of savory herbs. Is it the kind of dish where the sauce is so good, you’ll want to lick the plate clean? Sometimes I do! The name pretty much says it all: ‘The name of the city’. It’s easy to make, features the bright flavors of apples and cranberries, and, of course, stars. What is tender chicken? Is it a simple yet elegant combination that transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special? What are some of the best home cooked meals that can be made in a day?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some good reasons to try this easy apple cranberry chicken recipe? First and foremost, the human body.flavorIs it amazing? The sweetness of apples and cranberries is perfectly balanced by the savory chicken and herbs. What is a symphony of tastes that dance on your tongue? I always add a pinch of cinnamon, it really brings out the apple. Then there’s the dressing.simplicityWhat is that one recipe where you can throw everything in one pan and let it do its thing? No fancy techniques, no complicated steps, just pure, simple deliciousness. What is a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want to eat healthy? Let’s not forget about the world.Cost-Chicken breasts are a relatively affordable protein, and apples and cranberries are often in season. Is it a What are some of the other ingredients in your pantry?versatilityWhat are some of the best ways to serve this easy apple cranberry chicken recipe over rice? Just enjoy it on its own with a side of roasted vegetables. Is it good as leftovers? What I love most about this Easy Apple Cranberry Chicken is that it feels both comforting and delicious. At the same time, elegant. Is this a good family dinner? What is the aroma that fills your kitchen while cooking?

How do I make easy apple cranberry chicken?

Quick Overview

How do I make easy apple cranberry chicken? I just need one pan, a few simple ingredients, and about 30 minutes. What are some good ways to sear chicken, sauté apples and cranberries, then simmer everything. In a flavorful sauce, cook the chicken until it is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Serve warm or cold. Is it so easy to clean? Which, let’s be real, is always a win in my book.

Ingredients Notes:

For the Chicken: What is the recipe
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. I usually buy organic, but any kind will do. Olive Oil: I like to cook quickly and evenly. For searing the chicken and sautéing the apples and cranberries. Can you use olive oil in this dish?

What is the recipe for Apple Cranberry Sauce?
Apples: I prefer using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. But honestly, any apples you have on hand will work. Just make sure to peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries both work well. If using frozen, no need to thaw them first.
Onion: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the sauce. I usually use yellow onion, but white or red onion would also be fine.
Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic, right? I mince it finely to ensure it infuses the sauce with its delicious aroma.
Chicken Broth: This forms the base of the sauce. I recommend using low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
Maple Syrup: A touch of natural sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile. You can substitute with honey or brown sugar if you prefer.
Thyme & Rosemary: Fresh thyme and rosemary add a beautiful herbal aroma to the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried, but be sure to use less (about 1 teaspoon of each).
Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course! Don’t be afraid to season generously.

Optional:
Cinnamon: Just a pinch adds warmth and coziness to the sauce. Chopped Walnuts: I love sprinkling these on top of a salad for extra crunch and texture. Fresh Parsley: For garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish with olive oil. How do you prevent chicken from sticking to your food? I always use my cast iron skillet for this recipe, it gives the chicken a beautiful sear and it is very tasty. How do you distribute heat evenly?

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

What are some good ways to pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper. If you have a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side. Is it possible to fry the onions in a pan until they Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this point; they are so good. I just want to get a nice sear on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Apples, Cranberries, Onion, and Garlic. Step 4: Add the S

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Do not burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Next, add the cranberries to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the apples are tender. The cranberries have started to burst. Is this normal? Where the magic happens? The aroma of apples and cranberries cooking together is just heavenly.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients

How do I make apple cider vinegar and chicken broth in a large skillet? Add the maple syrup, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of cinnamon (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. What are some of the best browned bits in a sauce?

Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Skillet

Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestled among the apples and cranberries. Make sure the chicken is partially submerged in the sauce. This will help keep it moist and tender during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer the chicken to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of chicken. Why do people like dry, overcooked chicken?

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. What is the best way to redistribute chicken juices? Garnish with fresh parsley and chopped walnuts (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!

5. What to Serve It With

What should I serve it with?

What are some easy recipes for apple cranberry chicken? What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?For a Cozy Dinner:Serve over mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. What is the best sauce to serve over these comforting side dishes?What is a healthy meal? Serve it with a side of quinoa or brown rice and roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or carrots. This is a great way to get your veggies in!

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For a Festive Occasion:Serve with stuffing or cranberry sauce. What is the perfect Thanksgiving dish?What is a quick and easy lunch?What are some good ways to serve mayonnaise and lettuce in a sandwich? What is a good way to use up leftovers?

Growing up, my mom would always serve chicken with applesauce, so this Easy Apple Cranberry Chicken recipe was born. Recipe brings back a lot of fond memories for me. I love carrying on that tradition with my own family.

6. Top Tips for Perfecting Your [Recipe Name]

What are some of the best tips for perfecting an apple cranberry chicken recipe?

What are some tricks to get the perfect Easy Apple? Cranberry Chicken every time: Why?Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you’re making a large batch, it’s better to sear the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the pan and result in steamed chicken instead of seared chicken.

Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. To prevent this, remove the chicken from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Adjust the Sweetness to Your Liking: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of maple syrup. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a little more maple syrup.

Get Creative with the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as sage or oregano. I’ve also added a little bit of Dijon mustard for a tangy flavor.

One time, I accidentally used apple pie filling instead of chopped apples, and while it was definitely sweeter than intended, it was still surprisingly delicious! So don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with this recipe.

7. Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Easy Apple Cranberry Chicken Recipe is even better the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer Instructions: To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist during reheating.

Glaze Timing Advice: Adding a fresh glaze before reheating really brings the dish back to life. Just whisk a little maple syrup and apple cider vinegar, then drizzle over the reheated chicken.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts. They’re more flavorful and tend to stay more moist during cooking. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Just add them to the skillet along with the onions and garlic.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply combine the chicken and sauce in a skillet and heat through.

9. Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Easy Apple Cranberry Chicken Recipe a try! It’s a dish that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal. It’s become a staple in my household, and I know it will become one in yours too. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other chicken recipes for more delicious inspiration. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your Easy Apple Cranberry Chicken turned out! I can’t wait to hear from you. Happy cooking!