Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

Combining sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a standout dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or special occasions. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are cooked in a skillet and coated in a luscious cranberry-orange sauce, creating a colorful and flavorful main course that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The combination of fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and warm spices results in a sauce that’s rich in taste and perfectly balanced.

This recipe elevates simple chicken breasts with a fruit-forward glaze that delivers both sweetness and acidity, perfectly complementing the mild flavor of the chicken. Orange zest enhances the citrus aroma, while cinnamon and thyme provide warmth and depth. Cooking the dish in a single skillet allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the sauce naturally thickens as it reduces, creating a glossy, restaurant-quality finish. Garnished with fresh rosemary or thyme, this chicken dish is both impressive and approachable, making it a great choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, wild rice, or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s also a great option for meal prep, as the sauce keeps the chicken moist and flavorful even when reheated. The dish is visually appealing with bright red cranberries and vibrant orange glaze, making it a centerpiece-worthy entrée.

Ingredients

To make Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken, you will need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen)
• ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup chicken broth
• Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, for garnish

Fresh cranberries give the sauce a vibrant color and tangy flavor, while orange juice and zest provide a bright citrus note. Honey balances the tartness of the cranberries, and spices such as cinnamon and thyme create depth and warmth. Olive oil and butter are used to sear the chicken and add richness, while chicken broth helps create a luscious sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Drying the chicken ensures it sears properly and develops a golden-brown crust in the skillet.

Step 2: Sear the chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and begins to sizzle, add the chicken breasts. Sear for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the cranberry orange sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cranberries, orange juice, honey, orange zest, thyme, and cinnamon. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce starts to thicken.

Step 4: Add chicken broth and reduce

Pour in the chicken broth and continue to simmer for another 3–4 minutes until the sauce is glossy and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust sweetness with additional honey if desired. The sauce should be balanced between sweet, tangy, and slightly spiced.

Step 5: Return chicken to skillet

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the cranberry-orange sauce over each piece. Reduce heat to low and allow the chicken to warm in the sauce for 2–3 minutes, ensuring it’s coated and infused with flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma. Serve immediately with your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. The sauce is rich and flavorful, perfect for spooning over the chicken and sides.

Tips for the Best Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

1. Use fresh cranberries if possible: They provide the best flavor and texture, though frozen cranberries work well too.
2. Sear chicken properly: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure a nice golden-brown crust.
3. Balance the sauce: Taste and adjust the honey or orange juice to achieve your preferred sweetness and tanginess.
4. Make ahead option: You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat with freshly cooked chicken for convenience.
5. Serve immediately: The sauce is best enjoyed fresh; reheating gently prevents the cranberries from becoming too mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well. They are slightly more forgiving and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time as thighs may take a few minutes longer.

Can I make this dish with frozen cranberries?
Absolutely. Use frozen cranberries directly in the sauce; just allow a few extra minutes for the sauce to thicken as they release liquid.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, omit the butter or substitute with a plant-based butter or additional olive oil. The dish will still be flavorful.

How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer longer to reduce it, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken quickly.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead and reheat it with freshly cooked chicken. The flavors develop beautifully when prepared in advance.

What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, wild rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad. The sauce pairs wonderfully with grains that can absorb its flavor.

Can I use other citrus instead of orange?
Yes, tangerine or clementine juice can work. Lemon or lime will change the flavor profile significantly, making it more tart.

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Conclusion

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a bright, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, fruit-forward sauce. The combination of cranberries, orange juice, honey, and warm spices creates a well-balanced, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Quick to prepare, visually stunning, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a sophisticated yet approachable way to enjoy juicy chicken breasts with a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze. Pair with grains, vegetables, or a simple salad to create a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and guests alike.