Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that dances on your taste buds with its perfect blend of sweet and savory. Picture this: tender chicken bathed in a luscious sauce, bursting with the vibrant flavors of tart cranberries and zesty oranges. Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses and igniting your appetite for something truly special.
Every time I make Cranberry Orange Chicken, it reminds me of those cozy family dinners where laughter fills the air. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, perfect for festive occasions or just a weeknight treat that feels fancy without all the fuss. Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Trust me; it’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This amazing Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet cranberries and citrusy oranges creates an exciting flavor profile you’ll crave. Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning, ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served over rice, pasta, or on its own! [/info_box]
Making this dish has garnered nothing but compliments from my family who can’t get enough of its unique flavors.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
Fresh Cranberries: Look for vibrant berries; they should be plump and firm for best results.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice enhances flavor; store-bought can work in a pinch.
Zest of One Orange: Grate the orange peel carefully to avoid the bitter white pith beneath.
Honey: Use local honey if possible; it adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key here; choose firm cloves for maximum flavor impact. Creamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness without sacrificing taste.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil adds richness; feel free to substitute with another oil you love.
Pepper and Salt: Don’t forget these essentials to boost all the dish’s wonderful flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
**Prepare Your Chicken**: Start by patting dry your chicken breasts with paper towels. This step may seem trivial, but drying them off helps achieve that mouthwatering golden-brown sear when cooking.
**Sear the Chicken**: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until they turn golden brown on one side—about 5-7 minutes should do it. Flip them over with confidence!
**Create the Sauce**: In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, cranberries, and orange zest until fully combined. The mixture should look vibrant and inviting, promising deliciousness ahead.
**Combine Chicken and Sauce**: Pour the sauce over your beautifully seared chicken in the skillet. Reduce heat to low and cover. Let everything simmer gently for about 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through—this will also allow those flavors to meld together wonderfully!
**Thicken the Sauce (Optional)**: If you prefer a thicker sauce (who doesn’t?), remove the chicken once cooked through and let the sauce simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until reduced. Then return the chicken back into that flavorful goodness.
**Serve It Up**: Plate your Cranberry Orange Chicken alongside fluffy rice or fresh greens. Spicy Maple Chicken with Coconut Rice Drizzle extra sauce over everything for a presentation that will wow anyone at your table!
Now you’re ready to indulge in this culinary delight! Enjoy every bite as you savor that sweet-tart harmony of flavors coming together in one fantastic dish.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] The secret to this cranberry orange chicken lies in balancing the sweet and tangy flavors. Searing the chicken first locks in moisture, while a splash of fresh orange juice brightens the dish. This meal is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken in a hot pan to lock in juices, then simmer with cranberries and orange zest for deep flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for cherries or add a sprinkle of rosemary for an herbal twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For perfectly tender chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan while searing. Let it rest after cooking to ensure juiciness. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for an appealing presentation. [/info_box]
Sharing this cranberry orange chicken recipe at our family gatherings always leads to compliments and requests for seconds. My cousin once asked if I could make it every Sunday! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries for cranberry orange chicken?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used but thaw them beforehand.
What side dishes pair well with cranberry orange chicken?
Roasted vegetables or wild rice complement this dish beautifully.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Cranberry Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cranberry Orange Chicken is a deliciously balanced dish that marries sweet cranberries with zesty oranges for an unforgettable flavor experience. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, bringing everyone together with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma. Serve it over rice or pasta, and watch as this delightful meal becomes a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels for a golden-brown sear.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side until golden brown; flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, cranberries, and orange zest until combined.
- Pour the sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken after cooking and let the sauce simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes before returning the chicken to the skillet.
- Serve with rice or fresh greens, drizzling extra sauce over the top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg