Cape Cod Chicken
Cape Cod Chicken features tender chicken breasts simmered in a tangy cranberry-orange sauce with spices, perfect for a comforting family dinner with a hint of sweetness and zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, salt, and garlic powder in a plastic bag.
- Toss the chicken breasts in the flour mixture to coat evenly.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken pieces on all sides.
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, brown sugar, chopped onion, orange juice, cinnamon, and ground ginger; bring to a boil.
- Pour the cranberry mixture over the browned chicken in the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 40 to 45 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the orange juice for a few hours before cooking. If cranberries aren't available, dried cranberries can be used; just reduce the sugar slightly. To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. This recipe pairs beautifully with Nutty Slaw Salad for a refreshing side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cape Cod Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a light salad, such as a simple green salad or Texas Broccoli And Rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, ensuring the chicken is heated evenly without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cape Cod Chicken contains roughly 1062 calories, with 54g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (111% of the Daily Value), protein (109% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. It also contributes 15g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen chicken can take longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for orange juice?
If you don’t have orange juice, you can use apple juice or even pineapple juice as a substitute. Each will impart a different flavor, but they all work well with the cranberries and spices in this dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and cranberry mixture ahead of time. Simply brown the chicken and prepare the sauce, then combine and store in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, simmer until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).