November 24, 2025

Cranberry Orange Chicken

In my kitchen, this Cranberry Orange Chicken has a special place, especially during festive gatherings or cozy family dinners. The tartness of fresh cranberries beautifully melds with the bright zest of orange, creating a chicken dish that feels both comforting and vibrant. This recipe is not only a delight to the taste buds, but it also offers an inviting aroma that fills the home, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why choose Cranberry Orange Chicken for dinner? For starters, it’s incredibly quick and easy, making it ideal for weeknight meals when time is limited but you still want something delicious and satisfying. The slightly sweet-tart glaze enhances the chicken, making it kid-approved and appealing to adults alike. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, requiring minimal ingredients while delivering maximum flavor.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

The Cooking Process Explained

Making your own Cranberry Orange Chicken is straightforward and satisfying. You start by creating a flavorful marinade that combines sweet and citrus notes. The chicken is then coated in this mixture and roasted until it’s beautifully glazed. The cranberries add a burst of flavor and color, making for an impressive presentation.

What You’ll Need

2 lbs chicken (breasts or thighs)
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 orange (juice and zest)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)

Feel free to experiment with the orange zest for an extra zesty punch or play around with different herbs to find your perfect combination.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix the orange juice, zest, brown sugar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a vibrant marinade.
Place the chicken in a baking dish and pour the cranberry and orange mixture over the top, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Scatter cranberries around the chicken in the dish for added flavor and color.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and has a lovely glaze.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving, and enjoy!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Cranberry Orange Chicken can be served as a beautiful centerpiece for your dinner table. Pair it with fluffy rice or warm quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter option. To make it extra special, a glass of sparkling cider complements the flavors beautifully.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To ensure your leftovers stay delicious, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3-4 days. If you’d like to freeze them, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container it will last up to three months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!

Helpful Cooking Tips

Marinade Time: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken for an hour or so before baking.
Cook to Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly juicy results.
Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your orange and cranberries plays a huge role in the final taste, so choose the freshest options you can find.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick or some chopped nuts for added crunch. You can also experiment with herbs dill or sage can bring a new dimension to the dish. For a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for some heat.

Nutrition Table

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
per serving	320	28 g	34 g	10 g	2 g	16 g

This easy guide to making Cranberry Orange Chicken will have you and your loved ones savoring every bite. Happy cooking!