Holiday Cranberry Chicken
A flavorful holiday dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and spiced cranberry sauce, perfect for festive gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a heavy skillet.
- Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat chicken thighs with the flour mixture.
- Brown the coated chicken in the melted margarine.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the skillet with drippings, combine remaining ingredients except cranberry sauce.
- Heat the mixture on low for 5 minutes.
- Place the browned chicken in a large casserole dish.
- Pour the liquid mixture over and around the chicken.
- Add the cranberry sauce on top of the chicken.
- Cover the casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier chicken skin, consider using a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and flour instead of just flour. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute margarine with olive oil. You can also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to give a unique twist to the flavor. If you want to save time, you can brown the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
This Holiday Cranberry Chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables for a festive meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It also goes well with crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the flavorful juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave the chicken, but be cautious to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cranberry Chicken contains roughly 375 calories, with 9g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), and iron (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1417mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
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 chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind that breasts may dry out faster. To prevent this, reduce the baking time slightly and ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with buttery mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a cranberry-orange salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, serve over rice or quinoa to absorb the delicious sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, combine and heat as directed. This can enhance the flavors, making it a great option for busy holiday gatherings.
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).