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Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This tangy citrus dish, with its sweet-tart sauce and tender chicken, shines at autumn gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, about 1 lb/450g)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cranberry Orange Sauce:

  • 1 cup 100g fresh or frozen cranberries
  • ½ cup 120ml orange juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • ¼ cup 60ml honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp cinnamon optional
  • ½ cup 120ml low-sodium chicken broth

For Garnishing:

  • Fresh parsley or thyme
  • Orange slices or extra cranberries

Instructions
 

Season and Sear Chicken

  • I pat 4 chicken breasts dry and season with 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder. In a skillet over medium-high heat, I heat 1 tbsp olive oil, sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden, then set aside for juicy vibrant chicken recipes.

Make Cranberry Orange Sauce

  • In the same skillet, I add 1 cup cranberries, ½ cup orange juice, orange zest, ¼ cup honey, 1 tbsp vinegar, 1 tsp mustard, ½ tsp thyme, ½ tsp cinnamon (if using), and ½ cup broth. I simmer for 5–7 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens for a rich tangy citrus dish.

Simmer Chicken

  • I return the chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over it, cover, and simmer on low for 10–15 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for tender flavorful poultry dishes.

Serve

  • I garnish with parsley, thyme, or orange slices and serve warm with rice or roasted vegetables for vibrant chicken recipes.

Notes

  • Use fresh cranberries – They add the best tart flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken – Use a thermometer to keep it juicy.
  •  Let the sauce reduce – Helps intensify the flavors.

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Keyword Cranberry Orange Chicken