Description
Cranberry Orange Chicken is a heartwarming, flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of cranberries, the tang of orange, and savory chicken. Perfect for festive dinners, holiday meals, or cozy family nights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 large orange, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- Optional:
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for extra depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for a slight tang)
Instructions
1. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a pinch of fresh thyme or rosemary. Optional: marinate for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 4-6 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and honey or maple syrup. Stir and bring to a simmer.
5. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top.
7. Add chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan. Cover and simmer on low for 10-12 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
8. Serve hot, spooning cranberry-orange sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra orange zest if desired.
Notes
This dish is especially festive during the holidays, but easy enough for a weeknight meal.
Add balsamic vinegar or Dijon mustard for extra complexity in the sauce.
Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 320