Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

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The smell of cranberry orange chicken in the kitchen feels like a holiday tradition. It brings back memories of my first try at making it. It was a busy night before Thanksgiving, and I found homemade cranberry sauce in the fridge.

I decided to make an easy cranberry chicken with four chicken breasts, orange juice, and the sauce. It was a hit with my family, making it a favorite for any day. This dish is known for its sweet and tangy flavors, making everyone want more.

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a tasty twist for weeknights. It mixes cranberries’ tartness with oranges’ freshness. This makes the chicken sweet and tangy, loved by all.

I find it easy to make, perfect for any meal. It’s special enough for big celebrations, yet simple for everyday dinners.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe is special because it’s easy yet fancy. It looks and smells great, making everyone happy. Using good ingredients makes it even better.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The flavors in this recipe are amazing. Oranges and cranberries work together, making the chicken taste great. The sauce is just right, making each bite unforgettable.

It’s easy to make, perfect for anyone who wants to impress. It’s a favorite for many home cooks.

Key Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Chicken

Making the perfect easy cranberry orange chicken needs the right ingredients. Knowing what to use makes the dish taste better and look great. Let’s look at the main parts.

Chicken Selection and Preparation

I like to use 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They make the chicken tender and juicy. If you choose bone-in cuts, bake them longer.

For a healthier option, choose Farmer Focus chickens. They are raised well and don’t have bad stuff in them. Always thaw frozen chicken in the fridge for 24 hours before cooking.

Cranberries: Fresh vs. Canned

Choosing between fresh and canned cranberries changes the dish a lot. Homemade cranberry sauce tastes the best, but canned is quick and easy. I add ½ cup of fresh cranberries for a tart kick.

This recipe shows how great cranberries are. They make the chicken dish special.

Essential Herbs and Spices

Good flavor is important in any chicken dish. I use garlic, rosemary, and black pepper. Here’s what you need for the sauce:

IngredientQuantity
Orange Zest1 teaspoon
Orange Juice½ cup
Apple Cider Vinegar3 tablespoons
Honey2 tablespoons
Dijon Mustard2 tablespoons
Olive Oil2 tablespoons
Lite Soy Sauce1 tablespoon
Minced Garlic1 tablespoon
Fresh Rosemary1 teaspoon
Salt1 teaspoon
Freshly Ground Black Pepper½ teaspoon

In this easy cranberry orange chicken, all the ingredients work together. They make a dinner that smells great and tastes amazing. It’s perfect for special occasions or a tasty dinner any night.

Cooking Methods: Skillet or Oven

When making cranberry orange chicken, I often choose between skillet cooking or oven roasting. Each method has its own benefits. They help create different textures and flavors, making the dish special.

Benefits of Using a Skillet

Skillet cooking is fast and efficient. It can be done in under 30 minutes. The chicken gets a crispy skin and stays moist.

Here are some benefits of using a skillet:

  • Quick cooking time, perfect for busy weeknights
  • Intensified flavors due to fond creation, adding depth to the sauce
  • Easy to monitor and adjust for optimal browning

Oven Roasting Method Explained

Oven roasting is great for deep flavors and juicy chicken. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. It cooks the chicken in about 12 minutes, then broil for 1 to 2 minutes to caramelize the honey.

Some benefits of oven roasting include:

  • Even cooking throughout the chicken, preventing dryness
  • Hands-off approach, allowing me to work on side dishes or relax
  • Ideal for cooking larger batches when entertaining guests

Both skillet cooking and oven roasting are great for making cranberry orange chicken. Choose based on time and texture preference. Either way, you’ll enjoy every bite.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

I will show you how to make a tasty cranberry orange chicken. It’s quick, taking just 35 minutes. You’ll need only 5 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. Let’s get started!

Preparing the Chicken

First, pick your chicken. I like bone-in, skin-on breasts for extra flavor. But boneless works too. Here’s how to get ready:

  • Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry.
  • Season with 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes on each side until browned.
  • Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Creating the Cranberry Orange Glaze

Now, let’s make the glaze. It’s the dish’s highlight:

  • In a separate saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of coconut aminos, the juice of 1 fresh orange, and its zest.
  • Add 2 cups of fresh cranberries to the mixture, bringing it to a simmer.
  • Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens.
  • Adjust sweetness if needed, keeping in mind any personal preferences.

Cooking Techniques for Juicy Chicken

To get juicy chicken, pay attention to timing and temperature. Here’s how:

  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
  • If using chicken thighs, the cooking time may slightly vary, so keep that in mind.
  • Remove the chicken from heat once it reaches the target temperature, allowing it to rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

By following these steps and tips, your cranberry orange chicken will be yummy and look great. Enjoy making it and the tasty flavors it brings!

Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Chicken

Want to make the best cranberry orange chicken? A few tips can help. Use good ingredients and adjust flavors for a tasty meal.

Choosing the Right Orange Juice

Freshly squeezed orange juice makes your glaze taste better. Bottled juice has preservatives and isn’t as fresh. Juice the oranges yourself for a bright, zesty taste.

Tweaking the Sweetness and Flavor Balance

Getting the sweetness right is key. Start with brown sugar and add honey or maple syrup if needed. This way, the glaze and cranberries work well together. A good balance makes the dish a hit with everyone.

Serving Suggestions for a Festive Dinner

Make your cranberry orange chicken dinner special with the right sides and wine. These ideas will make your meal fun and memorable for everyone.

Complementary Side Dishes

Match the flavors of cranberry orange chicken with tasty sides. Here are some great choices:

  • Mashed Potatoes with Garlic: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the cranberry-orange sauce well.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes add color and a nice contrast.
  • Cranberry Orange Couscous: It shares the main dish’s flavors and has a fun texture.
  • Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A fresh salad adds brightness and cuts the richness of the chicken.

Perfect Wine Pairing for the Meal

The right wine can make your meal even better. Here are some good matches for cranberry orange chicken:

Wine TypeTasting Notes
ChardonnayA buttery, oaked Chardonnay goes well with the chicken and citrus.
Pinot NoirThis light red wine adds earthiness that balances the cranberries’ sweetness.
Sauvignon BlancIts high acidity makes it great with the tartness of the dish and sides.
RoséA dry rosé is refreshing and perfect for a festive meal.

With these sides and wines, your dinner will wow your guests. Enjoy the mix of flavors and the cozy feel of a well-thought-out meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

After enjoying my easy cranberry chicken, I often have leftovers. It’s important to store leftovers right to keep them tasty and safe. I cool the chicken down first. Then, I put it in an airtight container in the fridge.

This keeps the flavor and texture good. So, I can enjoy the meal again without losing any taste.

Best Practices for Storage

To keep leftovers fresh, I follow these tips:

  • For cooked chicken, store in the fridge for a maximum of four days or freeze for up to four months.
  • Raw chicken must be kept in an airtight container at the bottom of the fridge and used within one to two days after opening to prevent contamination.
  • If I’m storing rotisserie chicken, I can keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days or freeze for up to two months.

How to Reheat for Optimal Taste

Reheating tips can make leftovers even better. I aim to heat chicken to 165°F (74°C) for safety. Here are my favorite ways to reheat:

  • Reheating in the oven is often the best choice for chicken, as this helps retain moisture.
  • Using the stovetop is another option; I prefer to cover the chicken to keep it juicy.
  • If pressed for time, the microwave works for a quick meal, but I make sure to add a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Health Benefits of Cranberry Orange Chicken

The mix of cranberry and orange is tasty and good for you. This dish is full of nutrients and healthy ingredients. It’s a great way to eat well without losing flavor.

Nutritional Value of Cranberries

Cranberries are packed with good stuff. A cup of raw cranberries has only 46 calories. They also have:

NutrientAmount per 1 cup (raw)% Daily Value
Calories46
Vitamin C25%
Vitamin A9%
Vitamin K6%
Fiber4g
Antioxidants

They have antioxidants like quercetin and proanthocyanidins. These might help fight heart disease and some cancers. Eating them often can also help your gut and prevent UTIs.

Lean Proteins and Healthier Cooking

This recipe uses chicken breast, which is very protein-rich. It has 57 grams of protein per serving. This helps your muscles repair and grow.

It also has 514 calories, with 20 grams of fat and 7 grams of saturated fat. Using skinless chicken breast and fresh ingredients makes it a healthy and tasty choice. It shows that cooking healthy can be tasty and good for you.

Variations of the Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

This recipe is great for many diets and cooking styles. I enjoy trying new ways to keep the flavor the same. Here are some tasty options for slow cooker and gluten-free cranberry chicken.

Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Chicken

Slow cookers make cooking easy and the flavors blend well. It’s perfect for when you’re busy. To make slow cooker cranberry orange chicken, just follow these steps:

  • Put all ingredients in the slow cooker.
  • Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours.
  • Check if the chicken is done with a meat thermometer (165°F).

This method makes the chicken tender and full of flavor. It’s a great way to cook without much work.

Gluten-Free Adaptation Options

For gluten-free cranberry chicken, you can make some changes. Here are some tips:

  • Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
  • Choose gluten-free brown sugar or honey for the glaze.
  • Make sure all spices are gluten-free.

These changes let everyone enjoy the dish without worrying about gluten. The sweet cranberries and tangy orange are still there, making it delicious for everyone.

Recipe VariationPreparation MethodNotes
Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange ChickenSlow CookingGreat for busy days, infuses flavor over time
Gluten-Free Cranberry ChickenStovetop or OvenEnsure all ingredients are gluten-free

Trying different recipes adds variety and health to your meals. Have fun making these dishes in your kitchen!

Feedback and User Experiences

Connecting with other cooks is fun. It lets us share the joy of making cranberry orange chicken. People love this recipe and share their stories.

What Others Are Saying About This Recipe

Many say the dish is tasty and easy to change. They love the mix of tart and sweet. Some like to add more maple syrup for a different taste. Here’s what some users said:

UserCommentVariation Tried
User 1“Delicious! The lemon added a great twist.”Lemon juice and zest
User 2“My family loved it! I served with roasted vegetables.”Roasted vegetable sides
User 3“The spices really elevate this dish.”Doubled the cinnamon and cloves

Sharing Your Own Experience

Every cook adds something special. I invite you to share your cranberry orange chicken story. It could be a new ingredient or a side dish. Your stories help us all grow and learn.

Conclusion and Next Steps

As I finish talking about the cranberry orange chicken recipe, I’m really excited. This dish mixes sweet and savory flavors in a great way. It’s quick to make, ready in just 35 minutes.

Each serving has about 322 calories. This makes it a tasty and healthy choice for my family.

Now, I want you to try making this recipe. It’s perfect for a cozy weekend or a big celebration. The cranberry-orange glaze is sure to wow everyone.

Feel free to change things up, like using honey or maple syrup. You can also make it sweeter if you like. After you’ve eaten your chicken, try some other recipes I’ve shared. Like the Cranberry Orange Muffins or Oven Fried Chicken.

In the end, I hope you make your own cranberry orange chicken. Share how it turns out and any changes you make. I’d love to hear about it. Enjoy the amazing smell and delicious taste of this recipe!

Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

The smell of cranberry orange chicken in the kitchen feels like a holiday tradition. It brings back memories of my first try at making it. It was a busy night before Thanksgiving, and I found homemade cranberry sauce in the fridge.

I decided to make an easy cranberry chicken with four chicken breasts, orange juice, and the sauce. It was a hit with my family, making it a favorite for any day. This dish is known for its sweet and tangy flavors, making everyone want more.

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a tasty twist for weeknights. It mixes cranberries’ tartness with oranges’ freshness. This makes the chicken sweet and tangy, loved by all.

I find it easy to make, perfect for any meal. It’s special enough for big celebrations, yet simple for everyday dinners.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe is special because it’s easy yet fancy. It looks and smells great, making everyone happy. Using good ingredients makes it even better.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The flavors in this recipe are amazing. Oranges and cranberries work together, making the chicken taste great. The sauce is just right, making each bite unforgettable.

It’s easy to make, perfect for anyone who wants to impress. It’s a favorite for many home cooks.

Key Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Chicken

Making the perfect easy cranberry orange chicken needs the right ingredients. Knowing what to use makes the dish taste better and look great. Let’s look at the main parts.

Chicken Selection and Preparation

I like to use 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They make the chicken tender and juicy. If you choose bone-in cuts, bake them longer.

For a healthier option, choose Farmer Focus chickens. They are raised well and don’t have bad stuff in them. Always thaw frozen chicken in the fridge for 24 hours before cooking.

Cranberries: Fresh vs. Canned

Choosing between fresh and canned cranberries changes the dish a lot. Homemade cranberry sauce tastes the best, but canned is quick and easy. I add ½ cup of fresh cranberries for a tart kick.

This recipe shows how great cranberries are. They make the chicken dish special.

Essential Herbs and Spices

Good flavor is important in any chicken dish. I use garlic, rosemary, and black pepper. Here’s what you need for the sauce:

IngredientQuantity
Orange Zest1 teaspoon
Orange Juice½ cup
Apple Cider Vinegar3 tablespoons
Honey2 tablespoons
Dijon Mustard2 tablespoons
Olive Oil2 tablespoons
Lite Soy Sauce1 tablespoon
Minced Garlic1 tablespoon
Fresh Rosemary1 teaspoon
Salt1 teaspoon
Freshly Ground Black Pepper½ teaspoon

In this easy cranberry orange chicken, all the ingredients work together. They make a dinner that smells great and tastes amazing. It’s perfect for special occasions or a tasty dinner any night.

Cooking Methods: Skillet or Oven

When making cranberry orange chicken, I often choose between skillet cooking or oven roasting. Each method has its own benefits. They help create different textures and flavors, making the dish special.

Benefits of Using a Skillet

Skillet cooking is fast and efficient. It can be done in under 30 minutes. The chicken gets a crispy skin and stays moist.

Here are some benefits of using a skillet:

  • Quick cooking time, perfect for busy weeknights
  • Intensified flavors due to fond creation, adding depth to the sauce
  • Easy to monitor and adjust for optimal browning

Oven Roasting Method Explained

Oven roasting is great for deep flavors and juicy chicken. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. It cooks the chicken in about 12 minutes, then broil for 1 to 2 minutes to caramelize the honey.

Some benefits of oven roasting include:

  • Even cooking throughout the chicken, preventing dryness
  • Hands-off approach, allowing me to work on side dishes or relax
  • Ideal for cooking larger batches when entertaining guests

Both skillet cooking and oven roasting are great for making cranberry orange chicken. Choose based on time and texture preference. Either way, you’ll enjoy every bite.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

I will show you how to make a tasty cranberry orange chicken. It’s quick, taking just 35 minutes. You’ll need only 5 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. Let’s get started!

Preparing the Chicken

First, pick your chicken. I like bone-in, skin-on breasts for extra flavor. But boneless works too. Here’s how to get ready:

  • Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry.
  • Season with 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes on each side until browned.
  • Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Creating the Cranberry Orange Glaze

Now, let’s make the glaze. It’s the dish’s highlight:

  • In a separate saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1/4 cup of coconut aminos, the juice of 1 fresh orange, and its zest.
  • Add 2 cups of fresh cranberries to the mixture, bringing it to a simmer.
  • Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens.
  • Adjust sweetness if needed, keeping in mind any personal preferences.

Cooking Techniques for Juicy Chicken

To get juicy chicken, pay attention to timing and temperature. Here’s how:

  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
  • If using chicken thighs, the cooking time may slightly vary, so keep that in mind.
  • Remove the chicken from heat once it reaches the target temperature, allowing it to rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

By following these steps and tips, your cranberry orange chicken will be yummy and look great. Enjoy making it and the tasty flavors it brings!

Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Chicken

Want to make the best cranberry orange chicken? A few tips can help. Use good ingredients and adjust flavors for a tasty meal.

Choosing the Right Orange Juice

Freshly squeezed orange juice makes your glaze taste better. Bottled juice has preservatives and isn’t as fresh. Juice the oranges yourself for a bright, zesty taste.

Tweaking the Sweetness and Flavor Balance

Getting the sweetness right is key. Start with brown sugar and add honey or maple syrup if needed. This way, the glaze and cranberries work well together. A good balance makes the dish a hit with everyone.

Serving Suggestions for a Festive Dinner

Make your cranberry orange chicken dinner special with the right sides and wine. These ideas will make your meal fun and memorable for everyone.

Complementary Side Dishes

Match the flavors of cranberry orange chicken with tasty sides. Here are some great choices:

  • Mashed Potatoes with Garlic: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the cranberry-orange sauce well.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes add color and a nice contrast.
  • Cranberry Orange Couscous: It shares the main dish’s flavors and has a fun texture.
  • Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A fresh salad adds brightness and cuts the richness of the chicken.

Perfect Wine Pairing for the Meal

The right wine can make your meal even better. Here are some good matches for cranberry orange chicken:

Wine TypeTasting Notes
ChardonnayA buttery, oaked Chardonnay goes well with the chicken and citrus.
Pinot NoirThis light red wine adds earthiness that balances the cranberries’ sweetness.
Sauvignon BlancIts high acidity makes it great with the tartness of the dish and sides.
RoséA dry rosé is refreshing and perfect for a festive meal.

With these sides and wines, your dinner will wow your guests. Enjoy the mix of flavors and the cozy feel of a well-thought-out meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

After enjoying my easy cranberry chicken, I often have leftovers. It’s important to store leftovers right to keep them tasty and safe. I cool the chicken down first. Then, I put it in an airtight container in the fridge.

This keeps the flavor and texture good. So, I can enjoy the meal again without losing any taste.

Best Practices for Storage

To keep leftovers fresh, I follow these tips:

  • For cooked chicken, store in the fridge for a maximum of four days or freeze for up to four months.
  • Raw chicken must be kept in an airtight container at the bottom of the fridge and used within one to two days after opening to prevent contamination.
  • If I’m storing rotisserie chicken, I can keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days or freeze for up to two months.

How to Reheat for Optimal Taste

Reheating tips can make leftovers even better. I aim to heat chicken to 165°F (74°C) for safety. Here are my favorite ways to reheat:

  • Reheating in the oven is often the best choice for chicken, as this helps retain moisture.
  • Using the stovetop is another option; I prefer to cover the chicken to keep it juicy.
  • If pressed for time, the microwave works for a quick meal, but I make sure to add a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Health Benefits of Cranberry Orange Chicken

The mix of cranberry and orange is tasty and good for you. This dish is full of nutrients and healthy ingredients. It’s a great way to eat well without losing flavor.

Nutritional Value of Cranberries

Cranberries are packed with good stuff. A cup of raw cranberries has only 46 calories. They also have:

NutrientAmount per 1 cup (raw)% Daily Value
Calories46
Vitamin C25%
Vitamin A9%
Vitamin K6%
Fiber4g
Antioxidants

They have antioxidants like quercetin and proanthocyanidins. These might help fight heart disease and some cancers. Eating them often can also help your gut and prevent UTIs.

Lean Proteins and Healthier Cooking

This recipe uses chicken breast, which is very protein-rich. It has 57 grams of protein per serving. This helps your muscles repair and grow.

It also has 514 calories, with 20 grams of fat and 7 grams of saturated fat. Using skinless chicken breast and fresh ingredients makes it a healthy and tasty choice. It shows that cooking healthy can be tasty and good for you.

Variations of the Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

This recipe is great for many diets and cooking styles. I enjoy trying new ways to keep the flavor the same. Here are some tasty options for slow cooker and gluten-free cranberry chicken.

Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Chicken

Slow cookers make cooking easy and the flavors blend well. It’s perfect for when you’re busy. To make slow cooker cranberry orange chicken, just follow these steps:

  • Put all ingredients in the slow cooker.
  • Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours.
  • Check if the chicken is done with a meat thermometer (165°F).

This method makes the chicken tender and full of flavor. It’s a great way to cook without much work.

Gluten-Free Adaptation Options

For gluten-free cranberry chicken, you can make some changes. Here are some tips:

  • Use gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
  • Choose gluten-free brown sugar or honey for the glaze.
  • Make sure all spices are gluten-free.

These changes let everyone enjoy the dish without worrying about gluten. The sweet cranberries and tangy orange are still there, making it delicious for everyone.

Recipe VariationPreparation MethodNotes
Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange ChickenSlow CookingGreat for busy days, infuses flavor over time
Gluten-Free Cranberry ChickenStovetop or OvenEnsure all ingredients are gluten-free

Trying different recipes adds variety and health to your meals. Have fun making these dishes in your kitchen!

Feedback and User Experiences

Connecting with other cooks is fun. It lets us share the joy of making cranberry orange chicken. People love this recipe and share their stories.

What Others Are Saying About This Recipe

Many say the dish is tasty and easy to change. They love the mix of tart and sweet. Some like to add more maple syrup for a different taste. Here’s what some users said:

UserCommentVariation Tried
User 1“Delicious! The lemon added a great twist.”Lemon juice and zest
User 2“My family loved it! I served with roasted vegetables.”Roasted vegetable sides
User 3“The spices really elevate this dish.”Doubled the cinnamon and cloves

Sharing Your Own Experience

Every cook adds something special. I invite you to share your cranberry orange chicken story. It could be a new ingredient or a side dish. Your stories help us all grow and learn.

Conclusion and Next Steps

As I finish talking about the cranberry orange chicken recipe, I’m really excited. This dish mixes sweet and savory flavors in a great way. It’s quick to make, ready in just 35 minutes.

Each serving has about 322 calories. This makes it a tasty and healthy choice for my family.

Now, I want you to try making this recipe. It’s perfect for a cozy weekend or a big celebration. The cranberry-orange glaze is sure to wow everyone.

Feel free to change things up, like using honey or maple syrup. You can also make it sweeter if you like. After you’ve eaten your chicken, try some other recipes I’ve shared. Like the Cranberry Orange Muffins or Oven Fried Chicken.

In the end, I hope you make your own cranberry orange chicken. Share how it turns out and any changes you make. I’d love to hear about it. Enjoy the amazing smell and delicious taste of this recipe!

Sharing is caring!

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