Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the sweet and tangy taste of fresh cranberries and oranges, combined with tender, juicy chicken. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe offers a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors that is sure to impress. The rich glaze made from the cranberry-orange mixture coats the chicken beautifully, creating a mouthwatering dish everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe is a unique twist on the classic chicken dinner. The tanginess of the cranberries and the citrusy sweetness of the oranges provide a perfect complement to the savory chicken. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both everyday meals and festive occasions. The bright flavors and beautiful color make it both a treat for the eyes and the palate. Plus, the combination of ingredients adds a healthy dose of vitamins, making it both tasty and nutritious!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh cranberries
1 orange, zested and juiced
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar. Stir the mixture, allowing the cranberries to cook and release their juices, about 5 minutes.
Once the cranberries have softened and the sauce has thickened slightly, return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon some of the cranberry mixture over the chicken breasts.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the oven, and if desired, garnish with fresh rosemary. Serve the chicken with the cranberry-orange sauce spooned over the top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 40 minutes (including cooking and baking time)

Variations

Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist that balances the sweetness of the cranberries.
Add Vegetables: Toss in some roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of honey for a lower-calorie version of the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover cranberry orange chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain the moisture and texture of the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries can be used if fresh cranberries aren’t available. Just thaw them before adding to the sauce.

How can I make this recipe more savory?

If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of honey or replace it with a savory ingredient like Dijon mustard to create a more balanced sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Simply reheat the chicken and sauce together before serving.

Can I use a different type of citrus?

Yes, you can use other citrus fruits like lemon or lime to create a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount of honey to balance the tartness.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check.

Can I make this recipe without balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but you will need to adjust the cooking time to account for the bone. It will take a bit longer to cook through.

How spicy is this dish?

This dish is not spicy on its own, but you can add red pepper flakes or chili powder for a spicy kick if you enjoy heat.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can simmer it for longer to reduce it, or you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch and water) to thicken it quickly.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings a fresh twist to a traditional chicken dinner. The combination of cranberries and oranges creates a sweet and tangy glaze that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether served on a weeknight or at a festive gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Cranberry Orange Chicken

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This Cranberry Orange Chicken is a deliciously tangy and sweet dish that combines the bright citrus flavor of orange with the tartness of fresh cranberries. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this easy-to-make recipe offers a juicy, flavorful chicken with a zesty sauce that’s sure to impress.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey to the skillet. Stir everything together.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the cranberry orange sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 3-4 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve:
Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and spoon extra sauce over the top.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, you can mash some of the cranberries or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the sauce during cooking.
If you prefer a sweeter sauce, adjust the honey to taste.
Serve this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.