Cranberry Orange Chicken

Have you ever craved a dish so vibrant, so bursting with flavor, it practically sings to your taste buds? My Cranberry Orange Chicken does just that. It’s a culinary masterpiece, a symphony of sweet and tart, juicy and tender—a true explosion of happiness on a plate.

This recipe isn’t just a dish; it’s a memory. A memory of holiday gatherings, warm laughter, and the comforting aroma of something delicious baking in the oven. Get ready for a flavor adventure you won’t soon forget!

A truly stunning flavor combination.

Effortlessly simple to prepare.

The perfect dish to impress guests.

Incredibly versatile – adjust spice to your liking.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Breasts Choose boneless, skinless breasts for ease of cooking. Aim for about 1.5 pounds total.

Fresh Cranberries About 1 cup of fresh cranberries adds that perfect tartness. Frozen will work in a pinch!

Orange Juice Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled will do in a jam. About 1/2 cup will do the trick.

Onion One medium yellow onion, finely chopped, will add a wonderful depth of flavor.

Garlic Two to three cloves, minced, will give it a nice kick.

Chicken Broth Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness. About 1/2 cup.

Brown Sugar About 1/4 cup of brown sugar balances the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.

Cornstarch Two tablespoons of cornstarch will thicken our sauce into a luscious glaze.

Olive Oil Use a good quality olive oil for cooking the chicken and onions.

Spices Salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme for extra warmth and depth.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a dash of thyme. This is where the magic begins!

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds a whole new layer of flavor.

Step 3: Building the Cranberry Sauce

Add the cranberries and orange juice to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and softened. This is where the sweet and tart magic happens!

Step 4: Creating the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the cranberry sauce in the skillet. Continue to cook until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon nicely. This is where the shine comes in!

Step 5: Baking the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet on top of the cranberry sauce. Pour a little extra sauce over the chicken to ensure it stays juicy and flavorful throughout baking. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serving the Delight

Once cooked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the Cranberry Orange Chicken over rice, quinoa, or your favorite side dish. Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown, then set aside. While the chicken rests, prepare the cranberry orange sauce. Finally, combine the cooked chicken with the sauce and serve over your favorite grain or noodles.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment! Swap chicken for turkey or beef. Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for warmth. Toasted pecans or slivered almonds would add a delightful crunch to this Cranberry Orange Chicken.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent dryness.

Use fresh cranberries for the brightest flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; it needs space to brown properly. A little zest from a fresh orange really elevates the sauce.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

My Aunt Mildred’s recipe for cranberry sauce inspired this dish. Her secret? A touch of orange liqueur (which I’ve swapped for orange juice!), resulting in the most incredible flavor. It was a family favorite!

The Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

: A Culinary Adventure

This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about embarking on a culinary journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, just like my own life’s delicious chaos. Let’s get started!

Gathering Your Ingredients

: A Culinary Inventory

Before we dive into the magic, let’s gather our ingredients. Think of this as a pre-flight checklist for a delicious takeoff! You’ll need:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or turkey, or beef – be adventurous!)

1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries

1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works in a pinch)

1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons orange zest (about 2 large oranges)

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Salt and pepper to taste

Your favorite side dish (rice, quinoa, or noodles work wonderfully!)

Preparing the Chicken

: A Feathered Friend’s Transformation

First, we’ll tackle the chicken. This is where the real fun begins. Imagine these chicken breasts as blank canvases, just waiting for our culinary masterpiece. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and easier handling later on. Season them generously with salt and pepper – don’t be shy! They need that initial flavor boost to truly shine.

Crafting the Cranberry Orange Sauce

: A Symphony of Flavors

Now, the star of the show: the cranberry orange sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, chicken broth, brown sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and ginger. Bring this vibrant mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. The aroma alone is enough to make your taste buds sing!

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, and let the magic simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst open and the sauce has thickened slightly. This is where patience pays off.

Thicken the Sauce

: Mastering the Art of Consistency

To create that perfect sauce consistency, we’ll use cornstarch. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering cranberry sauce, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. This is the key to a luscious, not-too-runny sauce. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has reached your desired thickness.

Searing the Chicken

: A Golden-Brown Embrace

Now, back to our chicken! Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan!). Sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through. This searing process adds a depth of flavor you won’t get any other way. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Combining the Symphony

: Chicken and Sauce Unite!

The moment of truth! Gently add the seared chicken to the cranberry orange sauce, ensuring each piece is coated in the deliciousness. Let it simmer together for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and marry beautifully.

Serving and Savoring

: The Grand Finale

Serve your Cranberry Orange Chicken over your chosen side dish – rice, quinoa, or even some nicely cooked egg noodles all make wonderful companions. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra orange zest for a vibrant pop of color and zest.

Now you’re ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor (literally!). The perfect blend of sweet and savory, tangy and warm, this Cranberry Orange Chicken is sure to become a new family favorite. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Chicken

This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe delivers a burst of sweet and tart flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. The ease of preparation and the versatility of the dish make it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Remember to let the flavors meld by prepping ahead, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your sides! From simple rice to vibrant roasted vegetables, the possibilities are endless. So ditch the takeout menu, gather your ingredients, and prepare to be amazed by this fantastic, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dish. Enjoy!

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FAQs

Can I make this Cranberry Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day or two in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce gently, ensuring the sauce doesn’t scorch. The flavors will actually deepen overnight, giving you even more deliciousness! You can even assemble the entire dish, omitting reheating if you prefer a colder dish.

What can I serve with my Cranberry Orange Chicken?

The possibilities are endless! This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, or even a simple green salad. If you want something a bit more substantial, consider serving it over quinoa or couscous. The tart-sweet cranberry sauce complements many sides, so feel free to get creative and experiment with what you enjoy most. Don’t be afraid to try something new!

Is this Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, this Cranberry Orange Chicken freezes beautifully! Once the chicken is fully cooked, allow it to cool completely before storing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. It should keep in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then gently reheat in a pan or oven. Just be mindful not to overcook it, as this can dry out the chicken. Remember to enjoy it within a few days after thawing.

Are there any substitutions I can make for the ingredients in this Cranberry Orange Chicken?

While the recipe is delicious as is, you can certainly make some substitutions. If you don’t have fresh cranberries, you can use frozen cranberries (just thaw them first). You can also experiment with different types of citrus fruits, such as mandarin oranges or grapefruit, to alter the flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the amount of orange zest and juice to your liking, depending on how intense you want the orange flavor to be. Have fun tweaking it to match your palate!