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Elevate Dinner with Cranberry

Looking for a quick and satisfying vegetarian lunch option this season? Try this vibrant low-carb lunch featuring seasonal veggies that bring color and flavor to your table, perfect for a cozy get-together or a sunny picnic. Afterka’s delicious recipes make it easy to enjoy healthy meals without sacrificing taste! VegetarianLunch LowCarbLunch HealthyEating SeasonalRecipes MealPrep CleanEating Foodie

Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup honey

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

    Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they're golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

      Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

        Make the Sauce: To the skillet, add the fresh cranberries, chicken broth, honey, thyme, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.

          Incorporate Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.

            Add Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and allow them to warm through in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes.

              Garnish and Serve: If using, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for added crunch. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2