Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the tangy taste of cranberries with the bright flavor of oranges. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering. The sweetness of the cranberries and honey complements the savory chicken, creating a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
Making Cranberry Orange Chicken is a wonderful way to enjoy a flavorful dish that is also simple to prepare. The ingredients are easy to find and work together beautifully. Plus, this chicken dish is a great way to add a festive touch to your table, especially during the holiday season. It’s a healthy option packed with protein, and the vibrant colors make it visually appealing as well.
How to make Cranberry Orange Chicken
Ingredients :
- Chicken
- Salt
- Pepper
- Herbs
- Oil
- Garlic
- Cranberries
- Orange Juice
- Orange Zest
- Honey
- Broth
Directions :
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Sear the chicken in oil until golden brown, then set it aside.
- In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey to the pan. Simmer until the berries burst.
- Return the chicken to the pan, add broth, and cover. Cook until the chicken is done.
- Garnish with the sauce, fresh herbs, or additional orange zest. Serve warm.

Cranberry Orange Chicken
A delightful dish that combines the tangy taste of cranberries with the bright flavor of oranges for a mouthwatering meal.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken
- Salt
- Pepper
- Herbs
- Oil
- Garlic
- Cranberries
- Orange Juice
- Orange Zest
- Honey
- Broth
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Sear the chicken in oil until golden brown, then set it aside.
- In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey to the pan. Simmer until the berries burst.
- Return the chicken to the pan, add broth, and cover. Cook until the chicken is done.
- Garnish with the sauce, fresh herbs, or additional orange zest. Serve warm.
Notes
Can be served over rice, quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables. Use fresh cranberries for best flavor, and adjust sweetness to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to serve Cranberry Orange Chicken
Cranberry Orange Chicken can be served over a bed of rice, quinoa, or alongside roasted vegetables. It pairs well with a light salad or some crusty bread. For a festive touch, add some orange slices or fresh herbs on top when serving.
How to store Cranberry Orange Chicken
To store leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken, allow it to cool completely. Pack it in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to make Cranberry Orange Chicken
- Use fresh cranberries when possible for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to the sauce according to your taste preference.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some spice.
Variation
For a twist, you can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for some crunch. You can also try substituting different fruits like blueberries or even apples for a different flavor profile.
For another recipe built around the same cranberry and orange flavors, check out this this turkey breast version.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time a little, as they may take longer to burst.
2. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, Cranberry Orange Chicken is a healthy dish. It is high in protein and can be made even healthier by using skinless chicken breasts and less oil.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Chicken is a simple yet impressive recipe that brings together sweet and savory flavors. It is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that your family and friends will enjoy. Give it a try, and you may just find it becomes a favorite in your cooking rotation!
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