Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of oranges. It’s a great way to bring some bright flavors into your meal while keeping it healthy and delicious. The sweetness from the honey and the warmth from thyme (if you choose to use it) add depth to the dish. You’ll love how easy and quick it is to make, and it’s perfect for dinner parties or a cozy family meal.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup orange juice
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon thyme (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix the orange juice, honey, and cranberries.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme if you are using it.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange mixture over it.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve warm, drizzling the sauce over the chicken.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken is best served warm. You can plate the chicken with a generous drizzle of the cranberry-orange sauce on top. It pairs well with sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a colorful touch.

How to Store Cranberry Orange Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Make sure to use fresh or high-quality cranberries for the best flavor.
Feel free to adjust the honey to suit your taste if you prefer it sweeter or less sweet.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy before serving.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding different herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique flavor. You also might try adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the baking dish for extra color and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts instead?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before you start cooking.

What can I serve with Cranberry Orange Chicken?
This dish pairs well with wild rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed broccoli.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and cranberry mixture ahead of time. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.