Irresistible One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken Recipe

The aroma of One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken wafts through the air like a warm hug, instantly making you feel at home. Imagine juicy chicken thighs sizzling away as they soak up the sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, mingling with tart cranberries and fragrant garlic. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Rigatoni Each bite is a delightful dance of flavors, where savory meets sweet in perfect harmony.

This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back memories of cozy family dinners and friends gathered around the table. Picture this: your loved ones’ eyes lighting up as they take their first bite, followed by satisfied nods and murmurs of delight. Cranberry Pistachio Energy Bites Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken will make any meal feel like a celebration.

I remember the first time I made this for my family; they devoured every last piece and begged for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are my go-to choice for their juiciness and flavor, but you can use breasts if preferred.
• Fresh Garlic: Always opt for fresh garlic cloves; they’re aromatic and add depth to the dish.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Look for high-quality balsamic vinegar for rich flavor that truly elevates the dish.
• Cranberries: Use fresh or frozen cranberries; they provide a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the sauce. For more inspiration, check out this baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.
• Honey: A touch of honey enhances the sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness without overpowering other flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors throughout the cooking process.
• Fresh Thyme or Rosemary: Fresh herbs will elevate the dish with their aromatic qualities—plus, they look lovely!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Creamy Bacon Cheese Pasta Bake.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Chicken: Start by patting dry 4-6 boneless chicken thighs using paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, toss in 3 minced garlic cloves until fragrant—about 30 seconds will do!

Add Chicken to Skillet: Place seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet skin-side down. Sear them for 6-7 minutes until golden brown before flipping to cook through on the other side.

Create the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup of honey, and 1 cup of cranberries until well combined. Pour this delightful mixture over the seared chicken.

Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).

Garnish & Serve!: Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary on top for added flavor and beautiful presentation. Serve immediately over rice or alongside veggies!

Now you’re armed with everything you need to create this culinary masterpiece! Enjoy your cooking adventure with One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken skin-side down to achieve crispy perfection. While that’s happening, prepare the sauce by mixing balsamic vinegar and cranberries. This process ensures your chicken is juicy and packed with flavor. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for cherries or add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. These additions elevate the dish and allow you to experiment with flavors that excite your palate.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

Cooking this One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken has brought my family together countless times, from cozy weeknights to festive gatherings where everyone begs for seconds.

FAQ

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

Pair it with mashed potatoes or a green salad for balance.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Mexican Street Corn White Chicken Chili.

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.

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📖 Recipe Card

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One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken, where juicy chicken thighs are enveloped in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, complemented by tart cranberries and aromatic garlic. This quick and easy dish not only brings warmth to your kitchen but also creates memorable dining experiences with family and friends. Perfect for any occasion, it pairs beautifully with rice or greens for a vibrant presentation that will impress your guests.

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Ingredients

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• 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish

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Instructions

1. Pat dry the chicken thighs and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Place seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 6-7 minutes until golden brown; flip to cook through.
4. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and cranberries in a bowl; pour over the seared chicken.
5. Cover the skillet, lower the heat, and let simmer for about 15 minutes until sauce thickens slightly and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately over rice or alongside vegetables.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 288
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg