Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful recipe that marries the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright zestiness of orange. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a nutritious punch, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. With tender chicken breasts infused with a sweet and tangy sauce, this meal is a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal flavors while maintaining a healthy diet.

Why make this Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe

Nutritious and Protein-Rich: Each serving of Cranberry Orange Chicken offers lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Quick Prep and Cooking Time: With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Ideal for meal prep, you can easily make a large batch for the week ahead.
Low-Carb and Budget-Friendly: Utilizing simple ingredients, this recipe keeps costs low while providing satisfying flavors.
Kid-Approved Flavors: The sweet-tart combination makes this dish appealing to both children and adults alike.

"This Cranberry Orange Chicken was a home run at our family dinner! The flavors were incredible." – a satisfied cook.

How to make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Making Cranberry Orange Chicken is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll need basic kitchen tools such as a large skillet and an oven-safe dish. The delicious outcome arises from the perfect balance of tangy cranberries and zesty oranges, combined with tender chicken. For additional healthy recipes, check out our Healthy Meal Prep for Weight Loss guide.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh cranberries
1 orange, zested and juiced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

This simple list captures the essence of Cranberry Orange Chicken. Feel free to swap out fresh cranberries for dried ones, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Additionally, you can replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan alternative.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear in the skillet until browned on both sides.
In a bowl, mix cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, chicken broth, and honey.
Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.

For more delicious chicken recipes, don’t miss our Creamy Chicken Casserole.

How to serve Cranberry Orange Chicken

For a beautiful presentation, plate the chicken atop a bed of rice or quinoa, allowing the vibrant cranberry-orange sauce to cascade over the sides. Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Nutritionally, this dish is rich in protein and antioxidants, making it a wholesome choice.

If you’re looking for more chicken recipes, explore our Healthy 20-Minute Chicken Stir-Fry for a quick and satisfying meal.

How to store

Store leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. To reheat, use a microwave or oven, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.

Tips to make

Ensure Even Cooking: These boneless chicken breasts should be of uniform thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken enhances the flavor and creates a nice crust.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey per your taste.
Garnish for Presentation: Always garnish with freshly chopped herbs for added color and flavor.

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mix for some heat.
Citrus Blend: Incorporate other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a different flavor profile.
Herb Substitutions: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary for a unique aromatic touch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this Cranberry Orange Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just remember, they may require a bit more cooking time to release their juices.

Is there a low-sugar alternative for this dish?

You can substitute honey with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce sugar content.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, create a slurry with cornstarch and a few tablespoons of water. Stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, check out this article from Healthline.

Cranberry Orange Chicken beautifully combines flavors and nutrition to make a memorable dish. Try this recipe today and share your experience in the comments!