This Cranberry Balsamic Chicken is the perfect combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it a standout dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The juicy chicken is seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a luscious cranberry and balsamic reduction that balances tartness and sweetness beautifully. Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary enhance the aroma and flavor, making every bite feel comforting and elegant. Paired with a side of roasted vegetables or wild rice, this dish is as satisfying as it is stunning on the plate.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the cranberries, rosemary, and thyme.
- Simmer the chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the cranberry mixture. Lower the heat to medium and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Stir the sauce occasionally to ensure it thickens and coats the chicken.
- Finish the dish: If desired, add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce for a silky finish. Spoon the cranberry balsamic glaze over the chicken before serving.
- Serve: Plate the chicken with a generous spoonful of the sauce and cranberries. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Tips:
- For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in a mix of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
- This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, wild rice, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
