Description

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts or thighs cooked in a tangy and sweet sauce made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, and honey. Infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory and fruity flavors, ideal for a delightful weeknight meal or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Chicken

4 chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce

1 cup fresh cranberries
1 large orange, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, black pepper, and your choice of fresh thyme or rosemary. Let the seasoned chicken rest while you prepare the other ingredients to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté the finely chopped garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the fresh cranberries, orange juice and zest, and honey. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine and Cook: Return the browned chicken to the pan. Pour in the chicken broth, and if using, add balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits, then cover the pan and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Spoon the cranberry orange sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs or additional orange zest to add a fresh burst of color and flavor before serving.

Notes

Both chicken breasts and thighs work well; thighs will be juicier, breasts leaner.
The cranberry orange sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated with the chicken.
Adding balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard enhances the depth of flavor but is optional.
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American