The aroma of sizzling chicken wafts through the air, blending with sweet maple syrup and a hint of bourbon. Picture this: juicy chicken breasts, golden brown and dripping with a luscious cranberry pan sauce that’s as vibrant as your favorite autumn leaves. This Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to dance on your taste buds and make your kitchen smell like a gourmet restaurant.
Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to family dinners where the kitchen buzzed with laughter and the clinking of forks against plates. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a festive gathering, this recipe has become my go-to for impressing guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds—or thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The preparation is quick and straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Expect a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors that will tantalize your palate.
- Its beautiful presentation makes it ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties.
- Plus, you can easily make variations based on what you have at home!
Ingredients for Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, adjusting according to how many guests you’re serving.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for robust flavor; minced or crushed both work wonderfully.
- Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup; its rich sweetness is key to balancing the savory notes.
- Bourbon: A splash of good-quality bourbon elevates the sauce with depth and warmth—consider using one you enjoy sipping!
- Cranberry Sauce: Store-bought works fine, but homemade adds an extra touch of love if you have time.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still enhancing umami flavors in the dish.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken; choose extra virgin for added richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen
Gather all your ingredients and tools: a large skillet, measuring cups, a wooden spoon, and a cutting board. It’s time to channel your inner chef!
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Season each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper before placing them into the hot oil. Sear each side for about five minutes until they’re golden brown.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, soy sauce, minced garlic, and cranberry sauce. Ensure it’s well combined—this sauce is where all the magic happens!
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour your glorious sauce over the browned chicken in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about ten minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165°F or 74°C internally) while absorbing those incredible flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked through, remove from heat. Transfer the chicken to plates and drizzle generously with that beautiful cranberry pan sauce left in the skillet.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Serve warm alongside rice or roasted vegetables for an unforgettable meal that will leave everyone asking for more.
Get ready to savor each bite of this Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce! Your taste buds will thank you as they revel in this delightful combination of sweet maple goodness and tangy cranberries—all cooked up in one easy skillet. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion.
- The sweet and savory harmony creates a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
- It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, prepare the cranberry sauce with maple syrup and bourbon. Finish everything together for a delightful flavor fusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different fruits like apples or pears for the sauce. You can also experiment with spices—try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat to retain moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve that beautiful sear.
- Use fresh cranberries if possible; they bring vibrant flavor!
- Let the sauce simmer longer for deeper flavor layers that will wow your taste buds.
Sometimes I whip this dish out when friends come over, and their eyes light up as they taste it. One friend even declared it “the best thing I’ve ever made!” Talk about pressure to recreate perfection!
FAQs :
What is Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce?
Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful sauce. The sauce includes maple syrup and bourbon, giving it a sweet and smoky taste. Fresh cranberries add a tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also makes for an impressive meal that can be served on special occasions or any weeknight dinner.
How long does it take to make Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken?
This recipe for Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. The preparation involves marinating the chicken briefly, followed by cooking it in a skillet until golden brown. The cranberry pan sauce comes together quickly while the chicken cooks, making this dish perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is recommended for Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce, you can use frozen chicken if necessary. Just ensure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking, as uneven cooking can affect the final result. It’s best to plan ahead and defrost the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. This way, you maintain optimal texture and flavor in your dish.
What sides pair well with Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken?
Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the delicious pan sauce. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts add color and crunch to your plate, while a simple salad can provide a refreshing contrast. Whatever you choose, these side dishes will enhance your dining experience.
Conclusion for Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce :
In summary, Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce is an easy yet impressive dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in under 30 minutes. With its tender chicken and vibrant cranberry sauce, it’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. By following this simple recipe, you can create a delightful meal that your family will love. Enjoy experimenting with side dishes to complement this delicious entrée!
Quick Skillet Maple Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight your taste buds with this quick skillet recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts smothered in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Your Kitchen: Gather all ingredients and tools, including a large skillet and measuring cups.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet, searing each side for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Create the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Pour the sauce over the browned chicken in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through (165°F or 74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, transfer chicken to plates, and drizzle with the remaining pan sauce. Serve warm alongside rice or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approximately 190g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added depth of flavor, let the sauce simmer longer before serving. Feel free to swap in different fruits like apples or pears for variations in flavor.
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