Description
Sweet, tangy, and savory, this Cranberry Orange Chicken is a vibrant, juicy dish that bursts with holiday flavor but comes together quickly enough for a weeknight dinner. Seared chicken breasts simmer in a glossy orange and cranberry sauce, bringing together the best of fall and winter flavors. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner ideas, healthy holiday meals, or a cozy food idea to impress guests, this easy recipe delivers. Great for quick dinners, seasonal gatherings, or healthy high-protein meal prep.
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)
Instructions
1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove from skillet.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic to skillet, and sauté for 30 seconds.
5. Stir in orange juice, zest, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until well combined.
6. Add cranberries and simmer for 5–7 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens slightly.
7. Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over, and transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F.
8. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F.
9. Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes.
10. Garnish with parsley and orange slices. Serve hot with extra sauce drizzled on top.
Notes
Searing the chicken first locks in moisture and adds delicious depth to the flavor.
For a thicker sauce, simmer it a few extra minutes after removing the chicken.
Garnish with fresh herbs and citrus slices for an elevated presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 78mg
Keywords: cranberry orange chicken, easy dinner, holiday recipe, one pan chicken, chicken breast recipe