Chicken with Cranberry-Hoisin Sauce
My husband and I have high cholesterol, so I've been trying to lighten recipes to meet our needs. This main course is so good, even my two small grandsons come back for more!
My husband and I have high cholesterol, so I've been trying to lighten recipes to meet our needs. This main course is so good, even my two small grandsons come back for more!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey
- sauce:
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon canola oil
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)
- 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
- 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 can (20 ounces) unsweetened pineapple tidbits
- Carbohydrate 11.4493771642603 g
- Cholesterol 0.24 mg
- Fat 1.14381819546373 g
- Fiber 0.566158363079769 g
- Protein 1.05899092979388 g
- Saturated Fat 0.114784564061509 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (23g)
- Sodium 322.832188901236 mg
- Sugar 10.8832188011805 g
- Trans Fat 0.0518508184462876 g
- Calories 59 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the flour, salt and pepper. Add chicken, one piece at a time, and shake to coat.
- In a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, cook chicken in oil over medium heat for 5-6 minutes on each side or until a meat thermometer reads 170°F. Remove and keep warm.
- Reserve 1/3 cup pineapple and 1/3 cup pineapple juice (save remainder for another use). In the skillet, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, pepper sauce and reserved pineapple juice.
- Stir in the cranberries and reserved pineapple. Cook and stir until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 2 minutes.
- Serve with chicken.
Chicken with Cranberry-Hoisin Sauce: A Lightened-Up Family Favorite
As a busy mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals for my family is always a challenge. My husband and I are both watching our cholesterol, so finding recipes that are both satisfying and heart-healthy is a constant quest. This Chicken with Cranberry-Hoisin Sauce recipe has become a real lifesaver – and a family favorite! It's surprisingly easy to make, even on a hectic weeknight, and the flavor is incredible. The sweet and tangy cranberry-hoisin sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, creating a dish that's both elegant and comforting.
The original recipe was a bit rich, so I’ve adapted it to be lower in fat and cholesterol without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. The key is using reduced-sodium soy sauce and lean chicken breasts. I also found that using unsweetened pineapple tidbits helps to control the sugar content. Don't be afraid to experiment with the amount of hot pepper sauce to adjust the spice level to your liking. Some of my family prefers a little more kick, while others prefer it milder. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability!
This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual weekend gathering, or even a special occasion. It's impressive enough to serve to guests, yet simple enough for a busy weeknight meal. I often double the recipe when we have friends over, as it's always a crowd-pleaser. The leftovers are also great for lunch the next day! Sometimes I’ll even add a little leftover sauce to my rice for an extra boost of flavor.
Beyond the Recipe: More Than Just a Meal
Cooking, for me, is more than just preparing food; it's about creating memories and nurturing my family. The aroma of this chicken cooking always fills our home with a sense of warmth and comfort. It's a dish that evokes feelings of togetherness and shared meals, a ritual that brings us closer as a family. Sharing this meal with my family is always a highlight of my week.
The best part? The recipe is simple enough that even my kids can help with some of the steps. Measuring out ingredients, shaking the chicken in the bag, and even stirring the sauce are all tasks that my children can easily manage, making it a fun and engaging family activity. It’s a great way to teach them about cooking and healthy eating habits from a young age.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas, during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: If you like a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or increase the amount of hot pepper sauce.
- Serve it with: This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or even mashed sweet potatoes. We often serve it with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
This Chicken with Cranberry-Hoisin Sauce isn't just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and the joy of creating delicious meals for the people you love. It’s a recipe that has become a staple in our home, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours, too. Enjoy!
From my kitchen to yours,
[Your Name/Housewife's Name]
