Surprise Your Family This Christmas ❤️

Name: Surprise Your Family This Christmas ❤️
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs of chicken breast, boneless and skinless; 1 cup of cranberry sauce; 1 cup of orange juice; 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups of Brussels sprouts, halved; 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon of honey; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:56:28.124Z

This Christmas, gather your loved ones and create lasting memories with a dish that will warm their hearts. This recipe combines festive flavors and a touch of elegance to make your holiday celebration truly special.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously festive flavors that everyone will adore
A beautiful presentation that impresses your guests
Easy to follow steps for a stress-free cooking experience

      

Creating a Festive Atmosphere

Christmas is a time to gather with family and friends, and what better way to create a festive atmosphere than with a beautifully presented meal? As the aroma of the chicken and Brussels sprouts fills your kitchen, your loved ones will be drawn to the heart of your home. Set the table with holiday decorations, twinkling lights, and scented candles to enhance the experience. A well-set table not only adds to the meal but also fosters a spirit of togetherness that is essential during the holiday season.

Consider playing some classic Christmas music in the background to elevate the mood. The combination of good food and great tunes creates an inviting environment that encourages conversation and laughter. Your family will appreciate the effort you put into making the meal and the ambiance special. This Christmas, let your culinary skills shine and create lasting memories around the dining table.

Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients

This festive dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle development and keeping you full. The addition of cranberry sauce provides antioxidants that support heart health, while orange juice adds a refreshing vitamin C boost, which is perfect for the winter months when colds are more common.

Brussels sprouts, often overlooked, are a powerhouse of nutrients. They are rich in vitamins K and C, fiber, and various antioxidants. Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness and makes them incredibly flavorful. Together, these ingredients create a meal that is not only satisfying but also nourishing, allowing you to enjoy the festive season without compromising on health.

Tips for a Stress-Free Cooking Experience

To make your cooking experience as stress-free as possible, consider preparing some of the ingredients in advance. You can chop the Brussels sprouts and even marinate the chicken a day ahead. This will save you valuable time on Christmas Day, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones instead of feeling rushed in the kitchen.

Another helpful tip is to utilize your oven efficiently. Since both the chicken and Brussels sprouts can be cooked simultaneously, you can maximize your cooking time. Just remember to keep an eye on the roasting Brussels sprouts to ensure they reach the perfect level of caramelization. With a little planning, you’ll find that preparing this festive meal can be a delightful experience rather than a daunting task.

Ingredients

For the main dish

2 lbs of chicken breast, boneless and skinless
1 cup of cranberry sauce
1 cup of orange juice
1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the side dish

4 cups of Brussels sprouts, halved
2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon of honey
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before starting to cook!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, place the chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary. Pour the cranberry sauce and orange juice over the chicken.

Bake the Chicken

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While the chicken is baking, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a separate baking dish. Roast them in the oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is cooked, plate the chicken with the Brussels sprouts on the side. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the chicken over the dish before serving.

Enjoy your festive meal with family and friends!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your festive meal, consider pairing this delicious chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a vibrant quinoa salad. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the savory flavors of the chicken, while a quinoa salad adds a healthy crunch and a pop of color. Don't forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

For a refreshing drink option, serve a sparkling cranberry mocktail or a warm spiced apple cider. These beverages not only enhance your meal but also add to the overall festive spirit. Your family will appreciate the extra effort you put into crafting a complete dining experience that delights both the palate and the senses.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover chicken and Brussels sprouts, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes for a fabulous next-day lunch or dinner option. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and Brussels sprouts. Just make sure they are cooled completely before transferring them to freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly. This way, you can relish the flavors of your festive dinner even after the holidays are over.

Making it Your Own

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your family’s tastes. If you prefer a different protein, consider substituting turkey or pork for the chicken. For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with hearty roasted mushrooms or even a nut roast infused with similar flavors.

You can also experiment with the seasonings and sauces. Adding a hint of ginger or cinnamon can give the dish an extra festive flair. Whatever your choice, remember that the heart of this recipe lies in its ability to bring people together around the table, celebrating the joy of the season with every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the Brussels sprouts a day ahead. Just bake them on the day of serving.

→ What can I substitute for Brussels sprouts?

You can use green beans or asparagus as an alternative side dish.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the baked chicken and Brussels sprouts. Just ensure they are stored in airtight containers.

→ Can I use another type of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with pork tenderloin or turkey breast as substitutes.