Cranberry Orange Chicken is like a cozy hug on a plate, blending the tartness of cranberries with the zest of fresh oranges. Imagine a sunny day where juicy chicken dances in a sweet and tangy sauce, making your taste buds do the cha-cha. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with cranberries recipe.
This delightful dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even those moments when you want to impress someone special without breaking a sweat. Trust me, once you whip this up, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for takeout.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe is super easy to prepare, making it great for busy weeknights.
- The combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, quinoa, or even salad!
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Chicken
Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright red cranberries; they'll give the sauce that perfect pop of tartness.
- Fresh Oranges: Use both juice and zest for maximum flavor—think of it as the zesty cherry on top!
- Brown Sugar: A little sweetness goes a long way in balancing the tartness of cranberries.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best to keep things tasty without overwhelming saltiness.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth and aroma; don’t skimp on this!
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps to sauté everything beautifully and keeps chicken moist.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper like they just won an award.
Step 2: Make the Flavorful Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, orange juice, and grated orange zest. This magic concoction will elevate your chicken from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into your prepared baking dish. Pour the cranberry-orange sauce over them generously. It’s like giving each piece a spa treatment!
Step 4: Bake Away
Pop that dish in the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C). Your kitchen will soon smell like a citrus paradise!
Step 5: Add Fresh Cranberries
During the last five minutes of baking, sprinkle fresh cranberries over the top. They’ll burst open in the heat and add even more flavor.
Step 6: Serve Up
Once baked perfectly, transfer your chicken to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce from the baking dish. Garnish with a few orange slices if you’re feeling fancy!
And there you have it! Your Cranberry Orange Chicken is ready to be devoured by family or friends—or maybe just you after a long day because who are we kidding? Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This delicious cranberry orange chicken recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds; it also saves time in the kitchen.
- The bright colors and enticing aromas add a festive flair to any gathering.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special occasions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in juices, then combine cranberries and oranges while it cooks. Preparing a quick sauce during this time ensures everything finishes simultaneously, delivering perfectly cooked chicken with vibrant flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for cherries or add spices like cinnamon for warmth. You can also toss in some nuts for crunch or drizzle honey for added sweetness. Personalizing this dish can make it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, preserving that juicy goodness and zesty flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat your chicken dry before searing to get that golden-brown crust.
- Don't rush the sauce; letting it simmer enhances flavors beautifully.
- Finally, balance sweetness with acidity by adjusting orange juice as preferred.
It was during a family gathering when I first made cranberry orange chicken, and everyone couldn't stop raving about it! My cousin even asked if he could take some home—talk about a compliment!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Cranberry Orange Chicken?
To prepare Cranberry Orange Chicken, you will need chicken breasts, fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, garlic, and a mix of herbs such as thyme and rosemary. These ingredients work together to create a flavorful glaze that complements the chicken perfectly. Optional ingredients include salt and pepper for seasoning and orange zest for an extra citrus kick. Avocado Corn Salad Make sure to use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; however, frozen cranberries can be used in a pinch. This tasty dish can be served with rice or salad for a complete meal.
How long does it take to cook Cranberry Orange Chicken?
Cooking Cranberry Orange Chicken typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. After marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor, you can bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes. Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Colorful Cowboy Caviar If you're using a slow cooker, it may take a bit longer but results in incredibly tender chicken. Plan accordingly to enjoy this delicious dish!
Can I make Cranberry Orange Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can definitely make Cranberry Orange Chicken in advance! Preparing the marinade ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can marinate the chicken overnight and then cook it when ready to serve. Leftovers also reheat well; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving again. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
What are some side dishes that pair well with Cranberry Orange Chicken?
Cranberry Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its sweet and tangy flavors. Consider serving it with wild rice or quinoa for a wholesome option. Roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or carrots add a nice crunch and color to your plate. For a lighter choice, a fresh salad with mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette balances out the meal beautifully. Alternatively, mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes also make excellent companions! For more inspiration, check out this easy baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.
Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Chicken:
In summary, Cranberry Orange Chicken offers a delightful blend of sweetness and savory flavors that is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients like chicken breasts, cranberries, and orange juice, you can create an impressive dish that is both easy and satisfying. Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers The cooking process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy this meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With tips on meal prep and pairing options provided above, you’ll be all set to impress your family or guests with this delicious recipe!
Cranberry Orange Chicken
Cranberry Orange Chicken is a vibrant dish that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the bright zest of fresh oranges. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, promising to impress without the stress. The juicy chicken, enveloped in a luscious sauce, pairs beautifully with rice or salad for a complete meal. Enjoy this delightful flavor combination that is sure to become a family favorite.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- Juice and zest of 2 oranges
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, orange juice, and zest to create the sauce.
- Place seasoned chicken in the baking dish and pour the sauce over it generously.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Add fresh cranberries during the last five minutes of baking for extra flavor.
- Serve warm, drizzled with remaining sauce and garnished with orange slices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added warmth, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or swapping cranberries for cherries. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain juiciness.
