Cranberry and orange are just meant to be together. There’s something about the tart, juicy cranberries and the bright citrus notes that create a truly magical flavor combination. I remember the first time I made Cranberry Orange Chicken – it was a few years ago, just around the holidays. I was hosting a small dinner party for some close friends, and I wanted to wow them with a dish that was both comforting and impressive.
As I was flipping through my recipe box, I came across an old clipping for Cranberry Orange Chicken, and I just knew that was the one. I could practically smell the fragrant orange zest and feel the warmth of the savory chicken as I read through the instructions. That night, as my friends gathered around the table, the first bite of that Cranberry Orange Chicken had them swooning. The sweet-tart cranberries complemented the tender chicken so perfectly, and the hint of orange elevated the whole dish to a new level of deliciousness.
From that moment on, Cranberry Orange Chicken has become a staple in my recipe repertoire. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner, but impressive enough to serve at a holiday gathering. And the best part? It’s an absolute breeze to make.
Why This Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cranberry Orange Chicken
The secret to this Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe is in the balance of flavors. The sweet-tart cranberries provide a beautiful contrast to the savory chicken, while the orange zest and juice add a bright, citrusy note that ties it all together. But what really sets this dish apart is the way the ingredients are carefully layered and combined to create a harmonious, mouthwatering result.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken: You’ll want to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They stay nice and juicy during the cooking process.
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work equally well. Just be sure to rinse and pat them dry before using.
- Orange: You’ll need both the zest and the juice of one large orange to really make those citrus flavors shine.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and complexity to the dish.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme is the perfect aromatic to complement the cranberries and orange.
- Chicken broth: A bit of broth helps create a flavorful sauce that you’ll want to spoon over your chicken.
- Butter: A small amount of butter gives the sauce a rich, velvety texture.
Step-by-Step Cranberry Orange Chicken Instructions
Preparing Your Cranberry Orange Chicken
This Cranberry Orange Chicken comes together quickly, making it the perfect weeknight meal. You’ll need about 45 minutes from start to finish, and the only equipment you’ll need is a large skillet or oven-safe pan.
1- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken thighs all over with salt and pepper.
2- In a large skillet or oven-safe pan, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Add the garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4- Deglaze the pan with the orange juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the cranberries, thyme, and chicken broth.
5- Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the cranberry mixture. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
6- Remove the pan from the oven and stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is silky. Serve the Cranberry Orange Chicken immediately, spooning the sauce over the top.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Cranberry Orange Chicken is to not overcook the chicken. Keep a close eye on it in the oven, and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You also don’t want to skip the searing step – it adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
Another pro tip is to use fresh thyme if you can. The earthy, slightly minty notes of fresh thyme really complement the cranberries and orange. If you don’t have fresh thyme on hand, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
Serving and Storing Your Cranberry Orange Chicken
Perfect Pairings for Cranberry Orange Chicken
Cranberry Orange Chicken is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs well with all sorts of sides. For a classic pairing, serve it with roasted sweet potatoes or a simple green salad. It also goes great with herbed rice or a creamy mashed potato. And don’t forget a crusty loaf of bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!
As for beverages, a crisp white wine or a tart cranberry cocktail would be the perfect accompaniment to this dish.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken and sauce in a baking dish and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through.
This dish also freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven as directed above.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cranberry Orange Chicken
Creative Cranberry Orange Chicken Variations
While the classic version of Cranberry Orange Chicken is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try using a combination of cranberries and fresh cherries for a beautiful red color and slightly sweeter flavor. You could also swap in apple cider for the orange juice, or add a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy, autumnal twist.
Making Cranberry Orange Chicken Diet-Friendly
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free chicken broth. For a dairy-free version, omit the butter and use olive oil or coconut oil instead. And for a low-carb adaptation, serve the Cranberry Orange Chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice or potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just fine in this recipe. Just be sure not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, Cranberry Orange Chicken is a great make-ahead meal. Follow the recipe instructions, then let the dish cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
Q: How much does this recipe serve?
A: This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on your appetite and what sides you serve with it.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
A: If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead. The flavor won’t be quite as vibrant, but it will still work well in the dish.
Cranberry Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4
Description
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Cranberry Orange Chicken, where tender chicken is simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce made with fresh cranberries and vibrant orange juice. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 2 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. – Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. – Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly browned.
3. – Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. – In the same skillet, add the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. – Return the chicken to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. – Reduce heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. – Serve the Cranberry Orange Chicken immediately, garnished with fresh orange slices and chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
This dish can be served over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. For a creamier sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter or heavy cream at the end.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
I truly believe that once you try this Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe, it’s going to become a new staple in your household. The balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to make, with minimal prep and hands-off cooking time in the oven.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a holiday gathering, this Cranberry Orange Chicken is sure to be a hit. So go ahead and give it a try – I know you’re going to love it as much as I do!