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Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 92 reviews

This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a vibrant and tangy cranberry orange sauce. The dish balances sweetness from honey or maple syrup with the tartness of fresh cranberries and bright citrus flavors. It’s a delightful and colorful meal perfect for a cozy dinner that pairs wonderfully with rice or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (breasts for leaner option or thighs for juicier flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the chicken)

Sauce

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (frozen cranberries work as well)
  • 1 large orange (zested and juiced)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup chicken broth or water (to help make the sauce)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for extra flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme or rosemary. For deeper flavor, you may optionally marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the browned chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey (or maple syrup). Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 5-7 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the browned chicken to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits, enhancing the sauce’s flavor. Cover and simmer the chicken on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Serve: Once cooked, spoon the cranberry orange sauce generously over the chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional orange zest to add color and brightness before serving.

Notes

  • Using chicken thighs will yield a juicier and more flavorful dish compared to breasts.
  • Frozen cranberries can be used if fresh are not available—just add an extra minute of simmering to allow them to thaw and soften.
  • For a tangier sauce, consider adding the optional balsamic vinegar or Dijon mustard.
  • Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Keywords: Cranberry Orange Chicken, chicken recipe, cranberry sauce, easy chicken dinner, stovetop chicken

Find it online: https://trendytasterecipes.com/cranberry-orange-chicken-recipe/