Tangy Cranberry Chicken with Squash and Rice

Tangy Cranberry Chicken with Squash and Rice Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

This Tangy Cranberry Chicken with Squash and Rice recipe is a delicious and unique dish that combines the tartness of cranberries with the savory flavors of chicken and squash. The addition of brown sugar, mustard, and cinnamon adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it a perfect meal for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional cranberry chicken recipes, which have been popular in American cuisine for decades. The tangy sweetness of cranberries pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of chicken, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

1 can (16 oz (454 g)) whole berry cranberry sauce
2 tbsp spicy brown mustard
0.25 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp butter or margarine, melted
0.25 cup orange juice
0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
vegetable cooking spray
6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
2 small acorn squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1 inch pieces
3 cup hot cooked brown rice
0.5 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
2 eggs, beaten
1.5 cup cottage cheese
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
2 cup grated cheddar cheese, divided

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, combine cranberry sauce, mustard, brown sugar, butter, orange juice, and cinnamon; mix thoroughly.
Coat a 9x13 inch non-metallic baking dish with cooking spray.
Place the chicken in the dish and spread the squash evenly over the chicken.
Spoon the cranberry mixture on top of the chicken and squash.
Cover with foil and bake at 400°F (204°C) for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the squash and chicken are thoroughly cooked.
Serve over cooked rice and sprinkle with nuts, if desired.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breasts for a different flavor and texture.
Add dried cranberries or raisins to the dish for an extra burst of sweetness.
Use butternut squash or sweet potatoes instead of acorn squash for a different twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to evenly coat the chicken and squash with the cranberry mixture to ensure that each bite is bursting with flavor.

- To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch.

- For a crispy topping, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking to brown the cheese and nuts.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and nutritious meal. It can also be served with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious cranberry sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

- Broiling

Ingredient Substitutions

Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.

- Substitute apple juice or cranberry juice for the orange juice for a different flavor profile.

- Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cranberry mixture and marinate the chicken in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color. - Serve the dish in individual ramekins or bowls for a more elegant presentation. - Sprinkle extra grated cheddar cheese on top before serving for a cheesy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the tangy cranberry flavors.

- For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water or a fruity iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

420

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 18g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 32g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 25%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Nuts

Summary

This Tangy Cranberry Chicken with Squash and Rice recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is important to note that it contains dairy and nuts, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.

Summary

This Tangy Cranberry Chicken with Squash and Rice recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. With a balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Tangy Cranberry Chicken with Squash and Rice. It was a rainy afternoon, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new to try. As soon as I laid my eyes on the faded index card with the handwritten recipe, I knew I had to give it a go.

The recipe was unlike anything I had ever made before. Tangy cranberry sauce paired with tender chicken, roasted squash, and fluffy rice sounded like a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I couldn't wait to get started.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but wonder where this recipe came from. I had collected recipes from various places and people over the years, but this one seemed to be a hidden gem. The handwriting on the card was unfamiliar to me, and there was no indication of its origin. It was a mystery waiting to be solved.

I decided to make the dish for dinner that evening. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. The scent of roasting squash filled the air, mingling with the sweet and tangy aroma of the cranberry sauce simmering on the stove. I could hardly contain my excitement as I anticipated the final result.

As the dish came together, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. From my own mother's kitchen to the cooking classes I had taken in my younger days, each recipe held a special place in my heart. This new recipe, with its unique combination of flavors, felt like a welcomed addition to my culinary repertoire.

Finally, the Tangy Cranberry Chicken with Squash and Rice was ready. I plated it up and took a moment to admire the vibrant colors and textures before me. The cranberry sauce glistened on top of the tender chicken, while the roasted squash added a touch of sweetness. The fluffy rice served as the perfect canvas for all the flavors to come together.

I took a bite, and my taste buds were met with a symphony of flavors. The tangy cranberry sauce cut through the richness of the chicken, while the roasted squash added a subtle sweetness. Each bite was a delight for the senses, and I found myself savoring every mouthful.

As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn't help but think about the mysterious origin of the recipe. Who had written it down? Where had they learned to make this dish? I made a mental note to do some research and see if I could uncover the story behind this delicious creation.

In the following days, I delved into my collection of cookbooks and reached out to friends and family members in search of clues. I scoured the internet for similar recipes and studied the history of cranberries and squash in culinary traditions. Slowly but surely, the pieces of the puzzle began to come together.

It turned out that the recipe for Tangy Cranberry Chicken with Squash and Rice had its roots in a small town in New England. It was a traditional dish that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to the recipe. The handwritten index card that I had stumbled upon was a relic from a cooking class I had taken years ago, where a local chef had shared the recipe with us.

I was delighted to learn the story behind the recipe, and it only made me appreciate it even more. Cooking, for me, has always been about more than just following instructions. It's about connecting with the past, exploring new flavors, and sharing meals with loved ones. This recipe, with its blend of sweet and tangy flavors, embodied everything I loved about cooking.

Since that rainy afternoon when I first found the recipe, Tangy Cranberry Chicken with Squash and Rice has become a staple in my kitchen. I make it for special occasions and family gatherings, always with a smile on my face as I remember the journey that led me to discover it.

As I sit down to enjoy a serving of the dish once again, I can't help but feel grateful for the joy that cooking has brought into my life. Each recipe tells a story, and this one, with its mystery and intrigue, holds a special place in my heart. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best recipes come from unexpected places, waiting to be uncovered and shared with those we hold dear.