Cranberry Orange Chicken

Author: Emily

Published: 31 December 2025

There’s something truly magical about the combination of cranberry and orange, especially when paired with tender chicken. It’s a dish that feels festive and bright, perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. The tartness of the cranberries with the citrusy zing from the orange makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare! Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly while this is baking.

why make this recipe

This Cranberry Orange Chicken not only looks stunning on the plate, but it also tastes incredible. The sweetness of the brown sugar caramelizes beautifully in the oven. It gives the chicken a lovely glaze that makes it hard to resist. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a comforting meal at home, this dish delivers. It’s bright, cheerful, and utterly satisfying.

how to make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Ingredients:
4 chicken breasts, 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, 1 orange (juiced and zested), 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
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Cranberry Orange Chicken
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Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and brown sugar. Mix well.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pour the cranberry mixture over the chicken.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

how to serve Cranberry Orange Chicken

Serve this dish hot from the oven with your favorite sides. It pairs wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

how to store Cranberry Orange Chicken

If you have leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Cranberry Orange Chicken

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the cranberry mixture for a couple of hours before cooking.
If you’re using fresh cranberries, make sure they’re plump and bright.
Don’t rush the searing process; a nice golden-brown color adds so much flavor!

variation

Feel free to add some diced onion or garlic to the skillet while you sear the chicken for an extra kick. You could also swap the chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer them!

FAQs

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Cranberry Orange Chicken
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Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries will work, but they won’t provide the same tartness. So, you might want to add a splash more orange juice or a bit of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and cranberry mixture ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and then bake just before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?
Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Mashed potatoes or roasted veggies also make lovely companions!

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