1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are thick, you can butterfly them or gently pound them with a meat mallet to ensure they cook evenly and more quickly. Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them to about 1-inch thickness.

Once the chicken is prepared, season it generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. These simple seasonings will enhance the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering the delicious cranberry orange sauce.

2. Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is safe to eat.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the cranberry orange sauce.

3. Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce

In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the fresh cranberries. You’ll hear them pop as they begin to cook. Stir them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.

Add the orange juice, orange zest, honey or maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken. These bits add incredible flavor to the sauce.

Let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more honey or vinegar if necessary.

If you like a little extra kick, you can also add some freshly grated ginger to the sauce, which will pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the cranberries and orange.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Once the cranberry orange sauce is ready, return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

If desired, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.

5. Serve and Enjoy

To serve, place each chicken breast on a plate and spoon the cranberry orange sauce over the top. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad.