If you have been hunting for a showstopping yet simple dinner, this Cranberry Chicken Recipe is absolutely the one to try. Juicy chicken breasts meet a tangy-sweet blend of whole berry cranberry sauce, orange juice, and honey, creating a flavor combination that’s both comforting and delightfully fresh. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight meal or impress guests with minimal fuss, delivering a gorgeous vibrant sauce that coats tender chicken perfectly. Once you get the hang of this recipe, it quickly becomes a favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cranberry Chicken Recipe starts with its straightforward, essential ingredients that beautifully complement each other to build layers of taste, texture, and color. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken breasts to the zesty orange juice that brightens the dish and the cranberry sauce that adds a burst of festive sweetness and color.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up the flavorful sauce wonderfully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to sear the chicken and develop a lovely golden crust.
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce: Brings vivid color and a perfect balance of tart and sweet.
- ½ cup orange juice: Adds a citrusy brightness that lifts the whole dish.
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the cranberries.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle tang and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbal touch to tie the flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and intensifies the overall taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick for depth.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional): For thickening the sauce to a luscious glaze.
How to Make Cranberry Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Sear
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step is key for getting a lovely golden sear on your chicken breasts, which helps lock in juicy flavor. Sear each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until you achieve a nice light brown crust, then transfer the chicken to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole berry cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. This vibrant mixture balances sweetness, acidity, and savory herbs, making every bite exciting. Pour this luscious sauce evenly over the seared chicken in the baking dish so each piece is drenched in flavor.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish uncovered in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken is ready when it hits an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). During this time, the sauce will infuse the chicken with incredible sweet and tangy notes, while the heat ensures the meat remains tender and juicy.
Step 4: Optional Sauce Thickening
If you prefer a thicker, glossy sauce to spoon over your chicken, carefully transfer the sauce from the baking dish to a small saucepan. Combine the cornstarch and water to make a slurry, then simmer the sauce with the slurry for 2 to 3 minutes on medium heat until thickened. This extra step creates a luscious glaze that elevates the presentation and eating experience.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the thickened sauce generously over each chicken breast. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle with fresh thyme or a little orange zest. This simple garnish adds a burst of aroma and enhances the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Cranberry Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh thyme or a bit of bright orange zest on top of the cranberry chicken adds not only a lovely pop of color but also layers of fresh fragrance that complement the dish perfectly. These small details make your presentation feel much more special and enticing.
Side Dishes
This Cranberry Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the sauce beautifully, while steamed white rice offers a simple and neutral base that lets the chicken shine. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans add texture and balance to the sweet-savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your cranberry chicken atop a bed of fluffy quinoa or wild rice for a rustic, wholesome feel. Or arrange slices on a platter garnished with cranberries and fresh herbs for a festive buffet-style display. For an elegant touch, drizzle the thickened sauce artistically over each plate just before serving to make your guests feel truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though this Cranberry Chicken Recipe rarely lasts long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Place cooled chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. When freezing, it’s best to leave the sauce slightly thinner so it freezes evenly and thickens nicely upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cranberry chicken gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Add a splash of orange juice or water if the sauce thickened too much. Reheating slowly maintains the juiciness and keeps the sauce perfectly luscious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a more succulent and juicy option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs tend to cook a bit faster and stay tender.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this Cranberry Chicken Recipe is naturally dairy-free since it uses olive oil for searing and does not call for butter or cream. Just be sure your cranberry sauce has no added dairy ingredients.
Can I make this recipe without orange juice?
You can substitute orange juice with apple juice or even a splash of white wine vinegar mixed with a bit of water to mimic the acidity if you need an alternative. The citrus component brightens the sauce but there is room for flexibility.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. The chicken should be opaque and juices should run clear when it’s properly cooked.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! You can mix the cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey, mustard, and spices ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply sear the chicken and pour the chilled sauce over it before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Chicken Recipe effortlessly combines ease, elegance, and vibrant flavors into one dish that never fails to impress. It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want to enjoy something a little special without stress. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and experience just how delicious and satisfying cranberry chicken can be. Give it a whirl and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Description
This Cranberry Chicken recipe combines juicy, seared chicken breasts baked to perfection with a tangy and sweet homemade cranberry sauce made from whole berry cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. The dish offers a perfect balance of flavors, ideal for an easy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday meal, served best alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- ½ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Thickening
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Preheat and Sear: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned, locking in the flavor and juices.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole berry cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Bake the Chicken: Pour the prepared cranberry sauce evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Optional Sauce Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the sauce from the baking dish into a small saucepan after baking. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then simmer this with the sauce over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until it thickens to your liking.
- Serve: Spoon the thickened sauce over the baked chicken breasts. For a decorative and flavor-enhancing touch, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs or a sprinkle of orange zest before serving.
Notes
- Serve this cranberry chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- For a juicier protein alternative, substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- You can swap honey with maple syrup to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Using fresh thyme as a garnish enhances the dish’s aroma and visual appeal.
