Cranberry Jalapeño Chicken Skillet
This Cranberry Jalapeño Chicken Thigh Skillet is a savory and festive dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with aromatic herbs and garlic, then paired with honey-tossed cranberries, creamy goat cheese, and spicy jalapeño. A quick roast in the oven creates a rich, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Creator: Leslie Stokes
Ingredients:
boneless, skinless chicken thighs
garlic powder
smoked paprika
dried thyme
rosemary, finely chopped
salt
black pepper
olive oil
cups fresh cranberries
honey, divided
garlic cloves, minced
balsamic vinegar
jalapeño, thinly sliced
goat cheese, crumbled
***get full recipe below
If you’re looking for an easy, healthy, and flavorful meal that feels perfectly festive, this Cranberry Jalapeño Chicken Thigh Skillet is just what you need! Part of my 30-minute dinner series, this dish brings together the best of the holiday season with sweet, tangy cranberries, savory chicken, and a hint of spice—all in one pan.
A Festive (and Healthier) Holiday Dinner
With its bright cranberries and warm rosemary and thyme seasoning, this dish is like Christmas in a skillet! The rich flavors feel indulgent, but the recipe uses wholesome ingredients and avoids heavy creams or sugary sauces, making it a healthier option for your holiday table.
The fresh cranberries add a tangy punch that pairs beautifully with the honey, balsamic, and creamy goat cheese. And if you’re not a fan of spicy foods, don’t worry—this recipe is easily adaptable! Omit the jalapeño for a milder flavor, or swap it for dried cranberries for an extra touch of sweetness.
30 minute dinner series
I started this series thinking it would be a few quick and easy options for busy weeknights, but I really don’t see this series ever ending or at least anytime soon!
Obviously you don’t have to be a mom to make these meals and enjoy them, but I did set out with a purpose and that was to help moms feel a little less stressed in the kitchen when it came to putting easy + healthy meals on the table for their family!
make sure you are following along on social media for more recipes like this one!
Cranberry Jalapeño Chicken Skillet
This Cranberry Jalapeño Chicken Thigh Skillet is a savory and festive dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with aromatic herbs and garlic, then paired with honey-tossed cranberries, creamy goat cheese, and spicy jalapeño. A quick roast in the oven creates a rich, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Equipment
- oven safe skillet like a cast iron
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 lbs boneless/skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
- 4 tbsp honey, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
Let's Make It
- Preheat the oven:Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Season the chicken:In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pat the chicken thighs dry, then rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides.
- Pan-sear the chicken:Heat olive oil in a cast iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the cranberries:In a small bowl, toss the cranberries with 1 tablespoon of honey
- Add garlic and combine flavors in the skillet:Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds, then add the honey-tossed cranberries and balsamic vinegar. Stir to combine, then return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet.
- Top with jalapeño and goat cheese:Scatter the sliced jalapeño over the chicken and cranberries, then sprinkle the goat cheese on top.7. Roast the dish:Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cranberries are softened and bubbling.
- Roast the dish:Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cranberries are softened and bubbling.
- Serve:Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Spoon the sauce over the chicken before serving.
