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Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken: A Festive One-Pan Wonder

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delicious and easy one-pan dish perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitute boneless chicken thighs for richer flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 1.5 cups Fresh Cranberries Frozen cranberries can be used.
  • 1 cup Fresh Orange Juice Pomegranate or apple juice can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest Enhances citrus aroma.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup or sugar-free marmalade can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Use gluten-free mustard if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any cooking oil can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped Optional.
  • 4 slices Orange Optional.

Equipment

  • Large Oven-Safe Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting the boneless skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Set aside while you heat the olive oil for searing.
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Whisk together 1 cup of fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard directly in the skillet with the garlic. Stir continuously for a minute until combined.
  5. Introduce 1 ½ cups of fresh cranberries to the saucepan and continue to simmer for 5–7 minutes until they burst and release their juices.
  6. Reintroduce the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the bubbling sauce over the chicken.
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Allow the Cranberry Orange Chicken to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional orange slices before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Perfect when paired with creamy mashed potatoes or a vibrant citrus salad for a complete dinner experience.

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