Name: Cranberry Orange Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries; 1 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional); 4 orange slices (optional, for garnish)

When I first created this Cranberry Orange Chicken, I was simply looking for a festive way to elevate a basic chicken dinner. But the moment those cranberries burst into a ruby red glaze, and the aroma of fresh oranges filled the kitchen, I knew this recipe was something special. The contrast of sweet, tart, and savory makes every bite irresistible, and it has since become one of my go-to dishes for holiday gatherings and chilly weeknights alike.

I love how quickly it comes together, yet it looks and tastes like something you’d order at a high-end restaurant. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just treating yourself to a comforting dinner with seasonal flair, this dish checks every box: flavor, color, and ease. The skillet sizzles with juicy chicken, bright cranberries, and zesty orange slices in a glossy sauce that practically demands to be spooned over everything in sight.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Chicken

This recipe is bursting with flavor, yet surprisingly simple. The sweet-and-tart sauce gives everyday chicken a bold twist that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s also a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Plus, it works for both casual dinners and festive occasions, making it incredibly versatile.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here because they cook quickly and absorb the citrusy cranberry glaze beautifully. However, if you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs also work well and bring a richer flavor to the dish.

Options for Substitutions

No fresh cranberries? You can use frozen without any issue—they burst just the same and carry the same tart flavor. Not a fan of orange juice? Try pomegranate or apple juice for a fruity twist. And if you’re cutting back on sugar, substitute with maple syrup or a sugar-free orange marmalade to adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Ingredients for This Cranberry Orange Chicken

Chicken breasts – Lean and protein-rich, they’re the perfect base for soaking up the sweet and tangy sauce.
Fresh cranberries – These burst during cooking and release a tart juice that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
Orange juice – Adds bright citrusy flavor and a natural sweetness that lifts the whole dish.
Orange zest – Intensifies the orange aroma and gives the sauce a deeper citrus kick.
Garlic – Adds savory depth and sharp contrast to the fruity flavors.
Honey – Naturally sweetens the sauce and helps create that sticky, glossy finish.
Dijon mustard – Provides subtle heat and complexity, tying the flavors together.
Olive oil – Used for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor in the dish.
Fresh parsley (optional) – Sprinkled on top for a touch of color and freshness.
Orange slices (optional) – For garnish and extra citrus punch.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear each side for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk everything together to create a cohesive sauce.

Step 3: Add Cranberries and Simmer

Add the fresh cranberries to the skillet and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the cranberries start to pop and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Return Chicken and Finish Cooking

Nestle the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece. If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it to a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for 12–15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Alternatively, cover the skillet and simmer on the stove for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and orange slices if desired. Serve warm with spoonfuls of that delicious cranberry-orange sauce drizzled on top.

How Long to Prepare the Cranberry Orange Chicken

Prep Time: Prepping this dish takes about 10 to 15 minutes. That includes seasoning the chicken, zesting and juicing the oranges, and prepping the garlic and cranberries. It’s quick and straightforward, ideal even for a busy weeknight.

Cook Time: The cook time is around 25 minutes, depending on whether you bake or simmer on the stove. The cranberries need a few minutes to soften and release their juices, and the chicken finishes perfectly in the oven, soaking up all that beautiful sauce.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Chicken

Sear the chicken well before baking—this adds flavor and helps lock in moisture.
Don’t skip the zest; it deepens the citrus flavor more than juice alone.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; 165°F is the target.
If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or juice to loosen it.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to reabsorb the juices.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Not tasting the sauce: Always taste before returning the chicken to the pan. You might want more honey or mustard depending on your preferences.
Crowding the pan: This can steam the chicken instead of searing it.
Using bottled juice: Fresh orange juice and zest give the best flavor—bottled versions can be overly sweet or dull.
Skipping the sear: It may be tempting to toss it all in the oven, but searing first develops a deeper flavor.
Overcooking the cranberries: Once they burst and soften, take care not to overboil or you’ll end up with cranberry mush.

What to Serve With Cranberry Orange Chicken?

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes balance the tangy sauce perfectly and soak up every drop.

2. Wild Rice Pilaf

The nutty texture and earthy flavor of wild rice add contrast and a rustic element to the meal.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Caramelized, crispy Brussels sprouts add a savory, slightly bitter note that complements the sweetness of the dish.

4. Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft, warm rolls are ideal for sopping up the vibrant cranberry-orange sauce.

5. Mixed Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A light salad brings freshness to the plate and echoes the citrus notes in the chicken.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Freezing: You can freeze the chicken in its sauce for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too, just be sure to cover to avoid drying out the chicken.

Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 28g
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Sugar: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 390mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately, then combine and finish cooking when you’re ready.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Not recommended—they won’t release the juices needed for the sauce. If fresh or frozen aren’t available, you could use cranberry sauce as a base.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your Dijon mustard and other condiments are certified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Chicken brings together festive flavors with easy weeknight convenience. It’s sweet, savory, tangy, and unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to become a seasonal favorite.