The mouthwatering aroma of Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce wafts through the air, making your taste buds tingle with anticipation. Picture tender chicken, beautifully glazed in a sweet and savory bourbon sauce, paired with the tartness of cranberries. It’s like a cozy evening wrapped up in a warm blanket for your palate.
This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about reliving those joyful moments spent around the dinner table with family or friends. Imagine sharing this delightful recipe at your next gathering, where laughter echoes and the clinking of glasses complements the delicious meal. Let me tell you, when this chicken hits the table, everyone will be asking for seconds—and maybe thirds! For more inspiration, check out this flavorful chicken burrito bowls recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to whip it up on busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweetness and tanginess that will impress anyone.
- Its vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it visually stunning for any occasion.
- Plus, this recipe is versatile enough to pair with rice, veggies, or even a fresh salad!
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 3-4 chicken breasts depending on how many hungry bellies you are feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Go for firm garlic cloves; they pack a punch in flavor and aroma.
- Maple Syrup: Choose pure maple syrup for authentic sweetness that complements the bourbon perfectly.
- Bourbon: A good quality bourbon enhances the depth of flavor in your sauce; choose one you enjoy sipping!
- Fresh Cranberries: Opt for juicy cranberries for that zesty pop against the sweet sauce.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while adding umami goodness.
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of spiciness to balance the sweetness.
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 Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Don’t forget to chop up some fresh garlic while you’re at it!
Step 2: Season and Sear
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet and sear until golden brown on one side—about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Create Your Sauce
While the chicken cooks, mix together maple syrup, bourbon, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl. Stir until combined—it will smell divine! Pour this mixture into the skillet over your partially cooked chicken.
Step 4: Add Cranberries
Toss in those vibrant cranberries now! They’ll burst into juicy goodness as they cook down. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer together for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through—internal temperature should be at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Serve It Up
Once cooked, transfer your beautiful chicken onto plates or a serving platter. Drizzle liberally with that luscious cranberry pan sauce from the skillet.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Creation
Serve alongside your favorite sides—rice or roasted vegetables work wonderfully! Gather everyone around and watch as they dig in—this Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken is sure to become a new family favorite!
You Must Know
- This Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a flavor-packed adventure waiting to happen.
- With its sweet and savory notes, it brings joy to any table.
- Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this dish will leave your guests raving!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, sear the chicken until golden brown. While it cooks, prepare the cranberry pan sauce by mixing maple syrup and bourbon in a separate pan. Finish cooking the chicken in the sauce for maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for other fruits like cherries or even apples. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or substitute regular bourbon with spiced rum. Get creative and make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken while keeping that delicious sauce intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh cranberries for a vibrant flavor; dried ones can be overly sweet.
- Don’t rush the searing process; let that golden crust develop!
- A splash of vinegar at the end brightens up the dish beautifully.
I remember serving this Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce at a family gathering. Everyone was fighting over who got more sauce—definitely a sign of success!
FAQs
What ingredients are needed for Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce?
To prepare Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce, gather boneless chicken breasts, maple syrup, bourbon, fresh cranberries, chicken broth, garlic, and seasoning. These ingredients create a deliciously sweet and savory dish. slow cooker garlic butter beef Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor even more. The balance of sweet maple syrup and tangy cranberries pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. Don’t forget to have a skillet ready for cooking!
How long does it take to make Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce?
You can whip up Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce in about 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet flavorful. The chicken cooks quickly in a skillet, and the sauce comes together while it simmers. 30 minute marry me chicken With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is a great option for anyone looking for a fast meal without compromising on taste.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes, you can customize Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce to suit your preferences. For instance, if you don’t have bourbon, consider using apple cider vinegar or chicken broth as an alternative. You can also use dried cranberries if fresh ones are not available. Adjusting the level of sweetness by modifying the amount of maple syrup is another way to personalize the dish. Feel free to experiment until you find your favorite combination.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken recipe?
Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad also complement the dish nicely. flavorful chicken fajitas maple roasted chicken thighs If you want something heartier, try quinoa or couscous as a base. These options will enhance your meal while providing a balanced plate.
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-to-make dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in just 30 minutes. With simple ingredients like chicken breasts, maple syrup, and cranberries, you can create a delightful meal that impresses family and friends alike. This recipe not only saves time but also delivers delicious results that are perfect for any occasion or weeknight dinner! Enjoy this tasty experience today! For more inspiration, check out this hot honey chicken recipe recipe.
Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce
Quick Skillet Maple Bourbon Chicken with Cranberry Pan Sauce is a delightful dish that beautifully balances sweet and savory flavors. Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection and glazed in a rich bourbon sauce, complemented by tart cranberries. This quick recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to your dinner table in just 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry. Mince the garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for about 5-7 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Mix maple syrup, bourbon, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
- Add fresh cranberries, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).
- Transfer the chicken to plates and drizzle with the cranberry pan sauce from the skillet.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using spiced rum instead of bourbon or swapping cranberries for cherries. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.




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