Cranberry Orange Chicken

When it comes to cozy weeknight dinners that feel a little extra, Cranberry Orange Chicken is the hero your dinner table didn’t know it needed. It’s tangy, sweet, and just enough fancy to impress—but (pinky promise!) simple enough for a Wednesday night after soccer practice or that never-ending Zoom call.

Let’s face it: we’re all juggling a lot. Between picky eaters, laundry mountains, and work deadlines, dinner can feel like one more thing on the to-do list. That’s why I love this chicken dish so much. It looks gourmet, tastes like the holidays, and comes together without turning your kitchen into a war zone.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Chicken

Where do I even begin? First off, this dish is bursting with flavor. The cranberries add a tart punch, the orange brings sunshine in every bite, and the honey (or maple syrup!) ties it all together like a warm hug. Pair that with juicy chicken and some aromatic herbs, and you’ve got a meal that checks all the boxes: delicious, pretty, and practically foolproof.

Oh, and let’s not forget: this is a one-pan wonder. That means less mess, more magic.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Chicken

You probably already have most of these on hand:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Breasts for a lighter option, thighs if you want juicy, rich flavor.
• 1 cup fresh cranberries – Fresh is best, but frozen will do in a pinch.
• 1 large orange – Juice and zest, baby! It brings that sweet, citrusy balance.
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup – Either one works—go with your heart (or pantry).
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For getting that golden-brown sear.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary – For that earthy, herby backdrop.
• Salt and pepper – Just enough to season.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water – To make the sauce sing.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken (Step-by-Step)

This recipe comes together like a little dance—easy moves, delicious results.

1. Prep Your Chicken

Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of rosemary or thyme. If you have the time (and patience), marinate it for about 30 minutes for an even deeper flavor infusion.

2. Brown It Up

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your chicken and sear for about 4–6 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that golden brown magic. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet (no need to clean—hello, flavor!), toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then add the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and your sweetener of choice. Let it all simmer for 5–7 minutes until the cranberries start to pop and the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Finish It Off

Place the chicken back in the skillet, pour in the chicken broth, and gently scrape up those browned bits from the bottom. Cover and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and gloriously tender.

5. Serve Like a Star

Spoon that glossy cranberry-orange sauce over the chicken, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and maybe a little extra zest if you’re feeling fancy. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted veggies.

Tips & Tricks to Make It Even Better

• No fresh cranberries? Frozen will work—just give them a few more minutes to soften.
• Make it ahead! The sauce tastes even better the next day, making this perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
• Worried about dry chicken? Thighs are more forgiving, but using a meat thermometer (165°F is the magic number) is your secret weapon.

And don’t panic if your sauce looks a little lumpy at first. Those cranberries are doing their thing—it all smooths out beautifully in the end!

A Little Story from My Kitchen

I first made this Cranberry Orange Chicken on a chilly November night when I was trying to use up leftover cranberries from a failed pie attempt (long story, don’t ask!). I tossed them in a skillet with some orange juice, honey, and whatever herbs I had on hand—and wow. My kids devoured it. My husband asked if I’d made something “from a magazine.” And just like that, it became a regular in our dinner rotation.

FAQs: You Asked, I Answered

Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Chicken is the perfect mix of cozy and elegant. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy enough for guests but simple enough for a quiet night in with your favorite people (or just yourself and a good glass of wine—no judgment here). Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding a hungry family, or treating yourself to something a little extra on a random Tuesday night, this meal brings comfort, flavor, and just the right touch of seasonal magic.

The combination of juicy chicken, tart cranberries, and bright citrus is like a warm hug in every bite—sweet, savory, and beautifully balanced. And let’s be real: it’s nice to have a recipe in your back pocket that looks like you tried really hard… even when you didn’t.

So go ahead—grab that skillet, turn up your favorite playlist, and make a little kitchen magic tonight. You’ve earned it. ✨

Delicious Dishes to Try Next from Chicken Magic Recipes

Now that you’ve fallen in love with this sweet and savory Cranberry Orange Chicken, why not keep the momentum going with a few more standout meals from the Chicken Magic kitchen? Whether you’re in the mood for bold flavors, comforting casseroles, or vibrant weeknight favorites, we’ve got just the dish to keep your menu exciting and your family coming back for seconds.

Here are a few reader-loved recipes that pair beautifully with your new favorite:

• For another fruit-forward favorite, try our Jalapeño Peach Chicken—a sweet and spicy combination that’s just as easy to whip up as it is to devour.
• Need something hearty and comforting for a busy weeknight? This Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with goodness.
• Want to spice things up a little? Our Black Pepper Chicken with Mushrooms offers a rich, savory depth of flavor perfect for cozy evenings.
• If you’re a fan of vibrant, refreshing meals, don’t miss our Southwestern Chopped Chicken Salad—it’s colorful, crunchy, and makes a great lunch or light dinner.

Keep exploring and experimenting in your kitchen—because with chicken, the possibilities truly are endless! 🐔✨

Cranberry Orange Chicken

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• Author: Aneta
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Cranberry Orange Chicken is the perfect sweet-and-savory dish for a cozy dinner or festive gathering. Juicy chicken is seared and simmered in a bright, tangy glaze made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and herbs—simple enough for weeknights, elegant enough for guests!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen)

• 1 large orange (juice and zest)

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water

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Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary. Optional: marinate for 30 minutes.

2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add cranberries, orange juice, zest, and honey/maple syrup. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, until cranberries burst and sauce thickens slightly.

4. Simmer Together: Return chicken to skillet. Add chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the pan. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temp).

5. Serve: Spoon sauce over chicken, garnish with fresh herbs and extra orange zest if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

• You can use chicken thighs for a juicier result, or chicken breasts for a leaner option.

• Don’t worry if your cranberries look lumpy at first—once they burst, the sauce becomes beautifully glossy.

• Great served with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Category: Main course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg