Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dish packed with bright, bold flavors and tender, juicy chicken, you simply have to try this Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe. This meal perfectly balances the tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce and fresh orange with savory and crispy chicken thighs, creating a combination that feels both comforting and festive. Whether for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers impressive flavor without complicated steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, carefully chosen ingredients is the key to making this Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe shine. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of taste, texture, and vibrant color that will make your dinner table inviting and delicious.

• 6 chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide maximum juiciness and crispy skin.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to the pan for searing and flavor in the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Gives a savory boost and depth to the chicken seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a gentle heat and complexity.
• 14 ounces cranberry sauce: The star ingredient offering sweetness and tartness.
• ½ cup orange juice: Fresh juice brightens the sauce and adds citrus zing.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Creates a beautiful balance with its molasses richness against the tart cranberries.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic punch.
• Orange slices: Used both as garnish and to add fresh citrus aroma while baking.
• Fresh cranberries (for garnish): Adds festive color and a hint of tartness.
• Parsley (for garnish): Provides a fresh pop of green and mild herbaceous notes.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Melt the butter in a skillet

Start by heating a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter until it foams. This butter forms the flavorful base that will help you achieve that irresistibly crispy skin on your chicken thighs.

Step 2: Season the chicken thighs

Sprinkle the garlic salt and pepper evenly over the chicken thighs on both sides. This simple seasoning brings out the natural flavor of the meat and gives the final dish a wonderful savory backbone that complements the sweetness of the sauce.

Step 3: Sear the chicken thighs

Place the chicken thighs skin side down into the hot skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy. The searing process is essential to lock in the juices and create a beautiful texture contrast with the tender chicken inside.

Step 4: Remove chicken from skillet

Once the chicken skin is perfectly crisped, remove the thighs from the pan. At this stage, the chicken is not fully cooked through—you’re focusing on skin texture and flavor bases before baking.

Step 5: Prepare the sauce

To the flavorful drippings left in the skillet, add cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Whisk everything together until it forms a smooth, glossy sauce. This mixture is where the dish’s vibrant sweet-tart notes come alive and will beautifully coat the chicken during baking.

Step 6: Return chicken to the skillet

Place the chicken thighs back into the skillet, this time with the skin side facing up. This positioning allows the crispy skin to stay crisp while baking and soak up some of the sauce aroma.

Step 7: Add orange slices

Arrange fresh orange slices around and on top of the chicken. These slices not only enhance the citrus flavor but also make the dish visually stunning with their bright, inviting color.

Step 8: Bake until done

Transfer the skillet to a preheated 350-degree oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees to ensure it’s safe to eat and perfectly cooked—succulent and tender.

Step 9: Garnish for freshness and flair

Once baked, sprinkle fresh parsley and cranberries over the chicken. These garnishes add a fresh, vibrant touch and festive appeal that’s bound to impress anyone you share this Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe with.

Step 10: Serve and enjoy!

Bring your warm, fragrant skillet straight to the table or transfer to a serving dish and dig in. This dish delivers a perfect blend of textures and flavors every time.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and bright red cranberries not only add a pop of color against the golden chicken but also provide subtle herbal and tart notes that uplift the dish. Orange slices can also be left on the plate for extra charm and citrus aroma.

Side Dishes

This Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the luscious sauce. Roasted green beans or a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette add fresh, crunchy contrast, balancing the richness of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the chicken atop a bed of wild rice or quinoa, letting the sauce drizzle all around. Plating on rustic wooden boards with extra garnishes scattered around creates a cozy, inviting experience perfect for holiday dinners or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and sauce together to maintain moisture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For the best results, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in a 350-degree oven until warmed through to preserve the crispy texture on the skin. Microwave reheating is possible but may soften the skin.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs stay juicier and produce crispier skin, making them ideal for this Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe. If using breasts, monitor cooking time closely to avoid drying out.

Is fresh cranberry sauce better than canned?

Canned cranberry sauce works perfectly here because it has a smooth texture and consistent sweetness. However, if you prefer fresh, feel free to cook cranberries with sugar to make your own—it will add a brighter, more tart note.

Can I make this recipe without orange juice?

Orange juice adds a crucial citrus layer that brightens and balances the sweetness. If you don’t have any on hand, white grape juice with a splash of lemon juice can be a good substitute.

What side dishes complement this dish best?

Mashed potatoes, wild rice, green vegetables, or a crisp salad all make delicious accompaniments. Choose sides that offer a textural or flavor contrast to the rich, saucy chicken.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe is excellent for meal prep because it reheats well and tastes just as delicious the next day. Simply store in portioned containers for easy lunches or dinners during the week.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that brings warmth and vibrant flavor to your table with little fuss. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone wanting a special yet easy-to-make meal. It’s a wonderful way to brighten up your dinner routine and impress guests with something truly memorable. Give it a try—you’ll want to make it again and again!

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