Cranberry Orange Chicken is a dish that instantly brightens up your dinner table with its vibrant colors and lively citrus aroma. Tender chicken breasts are seared until perfectly golden and then bathed in a tangy-sweet sauce of fresh cranberries, orange juice, and honey. The cranberries burst as they simmer, creating a jewel-toned sauce that’s just as delicious as it is pretty. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself to something special, this recipe delivers that perfect blend of sweet, tart, and savory in every bite.

Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This fuss-free ingredient list is all about bringing out bold flavors with minimal effort. Each component lends something essential—zest, juiciness, or a pop of tartness—so you get the unforgettable taste (and wow-factor) of Cranberry Orange Chicken with just a handful of staples.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless is best for quick cooking and soaking up every bit of the sauce.
Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection and adds a subtle richness.
Salt and black pepper: The simplest way to bring out all those savory flavors in the chicken.
Orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred): Provides juicy citrus brightness that partners beautifully with the tart cranberries.
Orange zest: Packs in extra orange flavor, making every bite sing.
Chicken broth: Rounds out the sauce with richness while keeping things light.
Dijon mustard: Lends a gentle tang and depth that keeps the sauce from becoming too sweet.
Honey: Adds just the right amount of natural sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
Cornstarch (mixed with water): Ensures your sauce turns out shiny, luscious, and irresistibly thick.
Fresh or frozen cranberries: The star of the show for their color and tart punch—no need to thaw if using frozen!
Chopped fresh rosemary (optional): For an aromatic, woodsy note that pairs wonderfully with citrus and berries.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

You’ll start by generously seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat—when it shimmers, add the chicken. Sear each side for 4 to 5 minutes until it’s golden-brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside, letting those flavorful browned bits stay in the pan for the sauce!

Step 2: Build the Citrus Base

In that same skillet, pour in your fresh orange juice and chicken broth, scraping up any cooked-on bits left behind. Add orange zest, Dijon mustard, and honey, whisking everything together. This aromatic mix forms the vibrant heart of your Cranberry Orange Chicken sauce, so take a moment to inhale as everything comes to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Add the Cranberries

Toss in the cranberries—whether fresh or frozen—right into the bubbling sauce. Let them simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries begin to burst and the whole mixture turns beautifully jewel-toned. The cranberries break down just enough to thicken and tinge the sauce with their trademark pinkish-red.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Mix your cornstarch and water together to create a quick slurry, then pour it into the skillet. Stir gently as the sauce thickens over the next 2 to 3 minutes, achieving that glossy texture that clings perfectly to every piece of chicken.

Step 5: Return the Chicken and Finish

Now, slide those seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the cranberry-orange mixture over the top, then simmer for 2 more minutes to reheat the chicken and let everything meld. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle on some fresh rosemary just before serving!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh rosemary is pure magic here—it adds a fragrant herbal note and looks gorgeous against the crimson sauce. If you want to go the extra mile, a touch more orange zest or a few whole cranberries scattered on top can give your Cranberry Orange Chicken a restaurant-worthy finish.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even roasted root veggies. The zesty sauce is made for drizzling, so you’ll want something to soak it all up—think warm bread or even a side of couscous for variety.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken and arranging it on a platter, then spoon the sauce over for an elegant, shareable look—perfect for holidays or dinner parties. For a fun switch, pile sliced Cranberry Orange Chicken onto toasted buns with a spoonful of extra sauce for mouthwatering sandwiches that can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken cool to room temperature before popping it in an airtight container. It’ll keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days, and the flavors deepen with time—making your second (or third) helping extra delicious.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well! Store cooled chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Gently reheat Cranberry Orange Chicken on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure everything heats evenly and stays juicy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a bit more juiciness and rich flavor, making them a great swap if you prefer dark meat or want to try something new.

How do I make the sauce even more citrusy?

For an extra citrus punch, add a splash of orange liqueur or a bit more fresh orange zest during the simmering step. You’ll immediately notice the sauce gets even brighter and more aromatic.

Can I make this dish ahead of time for a holiday meal?

Definitely! Prepare your Cranberry Orange Chicken up to a day in advance, then gently reheat with a splash of broth just before serving. The sauce actually gets more flavorful as it sits.

What if I only have dried cranberries?

If using dried cranberries, soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes to rehydrate. The sauce will be a bit sweeter and less tart, but still delicious and colorful!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Cranberry Orange Chicken is naturally gluten-free as written. Just be sure to double-check your mustard and broth labels for any hidden gluten if needed.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to enjoy the tangy, sweet, and utterly comforting flavors of Cranberry Orange Chicken. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser with beautiful color and bright personality—give it a try next time you want to elevate an everyday dinner or impress at a gathering!

Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 3 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful and flavorful recipe for Cranberry Orange Chicken that brings a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors to your dinner table. Juicy chicken breasts cooked in a tangy orange-cranberry sauce, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Sauce:

1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)

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Instructions

Season the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil until golden.
Prepare the Sauce: Combine orange juice, zest, broth, mustard, honey. Add cranberries and simmer until sauce thickens.
Finish Dish: Return chicken to skillet, coat with sauce, and simmer. Garnish with rosemary and serve.