Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of seasonal flavor to your dinner table. The tangy sweetness of cranberries paired with the citrusy brightness of orange juice makes this recipe stand out. Whether you’re entertaining guests during the holidays or simply looking for a way to elevate your weeknight meals, this dish is a winner. I’ve made it countless times, and each time, the vibrant colors and flavors leave my family and friends asking for seconds!

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Chicken is not only delicious; it’s remarkably easy and quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or festive occasions. The combination of fresh cranberries and orange juice creates a tangy glaze that complements the chicken beautifully, infusing each bite with zesty goodness. It’s also budget-friendly, utilizing simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry.

“I made this recipe for Thanksgiving dinner, and it was a hit! Everyone loved the cranberry glaze, and it added such a nice touch to the table." – [Happy Home Cook]

How to Prepare This Recipe

This recipe features a straightforward cooking process that will have you enjoying a delicious meal in no time. Start by preheating your oven, then mix the flavor-packed sauce that will coat your chicken. Once your chicken is ready, pour the cranberry-orange mixture over it, pop it in the oven, and relax while it bakes. It’s a simple method that yields impressive results, making this an ideal dish for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Gather Your Ingredients

To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Zest of 1 orange

Feel free to replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option or use different citrus juices like lemon if you’re looking for a change!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and the zest of one orange. Mix until well-blended.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange mixture over them, ensuring the chicken is well covered.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear.
5. Serve warm, spooning the delicious sauce over the chicken for added flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Cranberry Orange Chicken

When serving Cranberry Orange Chicken, consider complementing it with side dishes that enhance its flavors. Creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy couscous pair beautifully, soaking up the delicious glaze. Adding a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will help balance the meal. For a more festive touch, a side of roasted vegetables or cranberry sauce can elevate your presentation!

Storage Tips

To keep your Cranberry Orange Chicken fresh longer, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, be sure to cool the chicken completely before placing it in a freezer-proof container. It can be kept frozen for up to three months. For reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Pro Chef Tips

• Marinate the chicken in the cranberry-orange mixture for a few hours, or even overnight, for deeper flavor enhancement.
• Baste the chicken with the glaze halfway through cooking for a sticky, caramelized finish.
• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Creative Twists

Feel free to explore different flavor profiles and variations of this dish! You can add spices like cinnamon or ginger for extra warmth or incorporate nuts like pecans for a delightful crunch. For a healthier twist, serve the chicken over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare Cranberry Orange Chicken?

Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cook time is 25-30 minutes, so you can have this meal ready in under an hour!

Can I substitute the honey in this recipe?

Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be great alternatives to honey, especially for a vegan version.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before consuming!

With its vibrant flavors and succulent chicken, Cranberry Orange Chicken offers a delightful and festive dining experience. You’ll want to make it again and again!

Cranberry Orange Chicken

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A delightful dish that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the citrusy brightness of orange juice, perfect for festive occasions or weeknight meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Zest of 1 orange

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and the zest of one orange. Mix until well-blended.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange mixture over them, ensuring the chicken is well covered.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear.
5. Serve warm, spooning the delicious sauce over the chicken for added flavor.

Notes

Marinate the chicken for deeper flavor and baste halfway through cooking for a sticky finish. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: cranberry chicken, orange chicken, holiday recipes, easy chicken recipes, festive meals