Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberry and orange. This recipe features a mouth-watering glaze made from fresh cranberries and orange juice, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. It’s a perfect dish for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or holiday meals, offering a unique twist on classic chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe is not only bursting with flavor, but it’s also easy to prepare. The combination of the slightly tart cranberries and the citrusy sweetness of the orange glaze brings a fresh and vibrant twist to chicken. The chicken remains tender and juicy, and the glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang, making this a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great option to make during the holidays or any time you’re craving something special yet simple to cook.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, and ground cinnamon. Stir to combine and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cranberries start to burst and the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of the cranberry sauce over the chicken, and transfer the skillet to the oven.

5. Roast the chicken in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the chicken with the cranberry orange sauce spooned over the top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts to the pan before roasting to create a one-pan meal.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy contrast to the sweetness of the cranberries.

• Cranberry sauce: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can substitute with homemade or canned cranberry sauce for a quicker option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a bit of extra orange juice or water to keep the sauce moist while reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are not available. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking.

2. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

3. Can I make the cranberry sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the cranberry sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

4. Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs would work great in this recipe, providing a slightly richer flavor and tenderness.

5. What other fruits can I add to the sauce?

You could add a bit of apple, pear, or pomegranate for a twist on the flavor.

6. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Combine the sauce ingredients, pour over the chicken, and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

7. Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, maple syrup would be a delicious alternative to honey, giving the dish a slightly different but equally sweet flavor.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

9. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that all your ingredients (such as balsamic vinegar) do not contain gluten.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a flavorful and simple dish that brings together the sweetness of cranberries and oranges with savory chicken. It’s perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to holiday dinners. With a few easy steps, you can make a meal that’s both elegant and comforting, sure to impress everyone at your table.