Cherry & Orange Chicken

An easy one pan chicken recipe with sweet cherries and zingy oranges. This Cherry & Orange chicken is a perfect entree for your holiday table.

When we first stumbled upon the idea of pairing cherries and oranges with chicken, we were intrigued but a bit skeptical. However, once we tried it, we knew we had to share this recipe with you! The combination of sweet, juicy cherries and the bright citrusy zing of orange slices takes your everyday chicken to the next level. Add a splash of brandy and the earthy aroma of rosemary, and you’ve got a dish that feels both indulgent and refreshing. The cherries and oranges create a sweet-tangy sauce that perfectly compliments the savory chicken. A perfect holiday entree..

Serving Ideas

We usually serve this Cherry Orange Chicken with something that can soak up all that delicious sauce:

• Fluffy mashed potatoes
• Steamed herbed rice
• Quinoa or couscous
• A side of roasted asparagus or green beans
• Some freshly toasted bread

Some tips for flavour

• If you don’t have brandy on hand, try using white wine or even apple juice as a substitute. It won’t be exactly the same, but it still adds a lovely depth of flavour.
• Make sure to use fresh rosemary if you can—it elevates the dish with a fresh, piney aroma.
• Fresh cherries (if in season) and a juicy, ripe orange will give the best flavour. If using frozen cherries, make sure they’re thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture diluting the sauce.
• If you have extra time, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour. The salt, pepper, rosemary, and olive oil infuse the chicken, making it more flavorful and juicy.
• Searing the chicken over medium-high heat before simmering locks in the juices and creates a beautiful golden crust. This step adds a depth of flavor that’s key to the dish.
• Low and slow is the way to go for caramelizing onions. Let them cook until they’re deeply golden and sweet. It might take a bit longer, but it’s worth it for the rich, sweet flavor they add. Adding a dash of water can help fasten the process.
• Allow the chicken broth to reduce and thicken slightly before serving. This intensifies the flavors and creates a more luscious sauce that clings to the chicken.
• Taste the sauce before simmering. If it’s too sweet (especially if using sweet cherries), you can balance it with a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.

Storing

If you have leftovers (which we doubt, because it’s that good!), you can store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for upto 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge over night and warm it up on the stove over medium heat.

Like this recipe? Try more Entree recipes –

Cherry & Orange Chicken

Recipe by thecrumbstoriesCourse: Entrée

Servings

2

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

An easy one pan chicken recipe with sweet cherries and zingy oranges. This Cherry & Orange chicken is a perfect entree for your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 250g chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp pepper

• 1 tsp rosemary

• 1/2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp Brandy

• 2 onions, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 orange, sliced into rounds

• 1 cup cherries, pitted

• 1 tbsp olive oil, for frying chicken

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, optional for garnish

Directions

• Marinate the Chicken
• In a large bowl, combine salt, pepper, rosemary, olive oil, and brandy.
• Add the chicken and coat well with the marinade. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
• Caramelize the Onions
• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the sliced onions and cook until they are soft and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Prepare the Fruit
• Add the orange slices and cherries to the caramelized onions. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together.
• Shallow Fry the Chicken
• In another skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Combine and Cook
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Transfer the browned chicken to a baking dish.
• Pour the caramelized onions, orange slices, and cherries over the chicken.
• Add 1/2 cup of chicken broth to the dish.
• Bake
• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Serve
• Optional: Garnish with sliced almonds before serving.
• Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

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