Cranberry Orange Chicken – Quick, Flavor-Packed Dinner
This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dinner that combines tender chicken with a tangy cranberry-orange glaze — perfect for weeknights or family meals.
Equipment
- 1 Skillet or frying pan Medium or large, preferably non-stick or cast iron for even searing
- 1 Chef’s knife Sharp, for cutting chicken and slicing oranges
- 1 Cutting Board Use separate boards for meat and produce if possible
- 1 set Measuring Cups For liquids and dry ingredients
- 1 set Measuring Spoons For spices, zest, and small amounts
- 1–2 Mixing Bowls For combining cranberry glaze or marinating chicken
- 1 Wooden spoon or silicone spatula For stirring glaze and mixing
- 1 Citrus zester or grater To zest oranges for added flavor
- 1 Tongs To flip chicken safely while cooking
- 1 Oven-safe dish (optional) If finishing chicken in the oven for crispiness
- 1 Small saucepan Optional, for making the cranberry-orange glaze separately
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken breasts or thighs Boneless skinless
- 1 cup Fresh cranberries Or frozen,rinsed
- 1 cup Orange juice Freshly squeezed preferred
- 1 tbsp Orange zest Adds extra citrus flavor
- 3 tbsp Honey Can substitute with maple syrup
- 2 tbsp Olive oil For searing chicken
- 1 tsp Garlic powder Or 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
- ½ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground recommended
- ½ tsp Ground cinnamon Optional,enhances flavor
- 1 tsp Cornstarch For thickening glaze
- 2 tbsp Water To mix with cornstarch
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil.
- Step 2: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; let rest 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown, avoiding overcrowding.
- Step 4: In a bowl, mix orange juice, orange zest, honey, and cinnamon.
- Step 5: Add cranberries to the pan and pour the orange-honey mixture over chicken.
- Step 6: Simmer until chicken is fully cooked and glaze thickens, about 10–12 minutes.
- Step 7: Optional: Mix cornstarch with water and stir into pan to thicken glaze.
- Step 8: Let chicken rest a few minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
- Step 9: Garnish with fresh herbs or thin orange slices for presentation.
Notes
- Flavor Tips: Let the cranberry-orange glaze simmer slowly until it thickens and the flavors meld beautifully. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of rosemary can naturally enhance the citrus notes.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Frozen cranberries can replace fresh ones if needed. Mandarins or tangerines can be used instead of oranges for a sweeter twist. Honey or maple syrup works as a healthier substitute for refined sugar.
- Cooking Tips: Sear the chicken first for a golden, crispy exterior while keeping it juicy inside. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing to retain maximum moisture.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a light salad. Garnish with fresh herbs and thin orange slices for a festive presentation.
- Storage & Make-Ahead: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve flavor and moisture.
