Savory One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken Recipe

When you think of a dish that brings together the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar and the delightful pop of cranberries, you might just imagine a culinary paradise. One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken is that glorious fusion, perfectly balancing flavors in every bite. Cajun Shrimp and Grits Picture tender chicken glistening under a rich, glossy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing and your family begging for seconds.

This dish isn’t just for fancy dinner parties; it’s also perfect for weeknight meals when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. As the aromas waft through your home, you’ll feel like a gourmet chef with minimal effort. So grab your skillet and let’s get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweet and savory that pleases every palate
  • With its vibrant colors, it makes an impressive centerpiece on any table
  • This dish is versatile enough to serve with rice, pasta, or salad for a complete meal

I still remember the first time I made One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken; my friends were skeptical but utterly amazed when they took their first bites. Garlic Butter Steak Bites.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 chicken breasts for a filling meal; adjust based on your crowd. For more inspiration, check out this air fryer chicken recipes recipe.
  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic lovers rejoice.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: Go for high-quality balsamic vinegar for a richer taste that elevates the dish.
  • Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness and texture; opt for unsweetened if you prefer less sugar.
  • Olive Oil: A good extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors; use it generously for sautéing.
  • Fresh Rosemary or Thyme: Fresh herbs elevate any dish; use rosemary for earthiness or thyme for warmth.
  • Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings are essential; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Lemon Dill Salmon Salad.

Let’s Make it Together

**Prep Your Ingredients**: Gather all ingredients before you start cooking to keep things organized and efficient. Chop garlic finely and measure out spices.

**Sear the Chicken**: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown on both sides.

**Add Garlic & Herbs**: Once chicken is browned, toss in minced garlic and fresh herbs. Sauté until aromatic—about one minute—then lower heat slightly.

**Create the Sauce**: Pour balsamic vinegar into the skillet along with dried cranberries. Potsticker Stir Fry Stir well to combine everything while scraping up those tasty brown bits from the pan.

**Simmer & Thicken**: Allow the mixture to simmer gently until the sauce thickens—about 5-7 minutes—turning chicken occasionally so it absorbs all those delicious flavors.

**Serve It Up**: Once cooked through, remove from heat and let rest briefly before serving. The aroma will entice everyone at the table!

This One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken not only looks fabulous but tastes even better! Enjoy this dish with your favorite side dishes or simply on its own—the choice is yours!

You Must Know

  • This One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners
  • It’s quick, flavorful, and uses minimal dishes, making cleanup a breeze
  • The vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas will impress anyone at your table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to golden perfection, then add cranberries and simmer in balsamic sauce. This method locks in flavors while ensuring the chicken remains juicy.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cranberries for cherries or use different herbs like rosemary for a unique twist. Adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup for added depth.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor; they make a noticeable difference in taste
  • Pat the chicken dry before cooking to achieve that perfect sear
  • Experiment with various fruits, like apples or figs, for unexpected sweetness and complexity

Cooking this One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone raved about how delicious it was—those compliments still warm my heart!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

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

What can I serve with this chicken dish?

Serve it alongside rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Print
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One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken


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  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

One-Skillet Balsamic Cranberry Chicken marries the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar with the delightful burst of cranberries, creating a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and will leave your family asking for seconds. With tender chicken coated in a rich, glossy sauce, it’s a showstopper on any dinner table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup high-quality balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients by chopping the garlic and measuring the spices.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; sear until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Add minced garlic and herbs; sauté for one minute until aromatic.
  4. Pour in balsamic vinegar and stir in dried cranberries, scraping up brown bits from the pan.
  5. Allow to simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  6. Remove from heat, let rest briefly, then serve.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 6 oz)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 370mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 43g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

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