This dish is a delightful combination of tangy cranberries and sweet orange juice, creating a lovely sauce that coats tender chicken. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight dinner but special enough for family gatherings. The warm and bright flavors will surely please kids and adults alike.
Why You Will Love This Cranberry Orange Chicken
This recipe stands out because it’s both easy and delicious. With everyday ingredients, you can whip up a wholesome meal without a fuss. It requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy moms and dads. Plus, the sweet and tart combination keeps everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken
Making this dish is a breeze! The chicken bakes in the oven while the sauce develops its rich flavors. All you need is a mixing bowl and a baking dish, so cleanup is quick. Once it’s done, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to serve.
What You Need
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Orange slices for garnish
Step-by-Step
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Garnish with orange slices before serving. Enjoy your Cranberry Orange Chicken with your favorite sides!
How to Serve Cranberry Orange Chicken
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. A side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad can add some nice color to your plate. It’s great for a cozy weeknight meal, and the leftovers make a perfect lunch the next day!
How to Store Cranberry Orange Chicken
To keep leftovers fresh, store any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for later use, but be sure to let it cool completely before storing. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Recipe Tips
- Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even baking.
- If you want a thicker sauce, stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of cold water before baking.
- For a twist, try adding a splash of ginger ale or soda for extra sweetness.
- If using frozen cranberries, no need to thaw them; just toss them in as is!
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
Variations & Swaps
- Swap the chicken for turkey breasts for a different protein option.
- Use different fruit juices, like apple or pineapple, for a unique flavor.
- Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy topping.
- Try fresh herbs like rosemary or cilantro instead of thyme for a different herb profile.
- For a kid-friendly edition, add a little more brown sugar to sweeten the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cranberry mixture and marinate the chicken in it for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before baking. This will enhance the flavors. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly if the chicken is cold when you start cooking.
Can I freeze leftover cranberry orange chicken?
Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container and freeze. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it until warmed through.
How do I reheat leftover chicken?
To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave but be cautious not to dry the chicken out.
What can I substitute for cranberries?
If cranberries are not available, you can use chopped cherries or blueberries. Just adjust the sweetness, as these fruits are often sweeter than cranberries.
What are common mistakes to avoid?
One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. Always check for doneness before the time is up. Also, not seasoning adequately can lead to a bland dish, so don’t skip the salt and pepper.
Cranberry Orange Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries No need to thaw if using frozen.
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper Season to taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- as needed Orange slices for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Garnish with orange slices before serving.
