Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

If you’re looking for a flavorful, vibrant, and easy one-pan dinner, this Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is the perfect dish! The combination of tart cranberries, sweet oranges, and savory, tender chicken creates a balanced, festive meal that is great for any season—though it’s especially perfect for fall and winter. This dish comes together quickly in a single skillet, making cleanup easy while maximizing flavor. The cranberries burst into a tangy sauce that beautifully complements the citrusy orange zest and juice, while the seared chicken stays juicy and delicious. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or preparing something special for the holidays, this recipe is bound to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: This entire dish is made in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: The combination of sweet, tart, and savory flavors creates an irresistible dish.
• Great for Special Occasions: The vibrant red cranberries and orange slices make this a beautiful holiday meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, vitamin C, and antioxidants from the cranberries and oranges.
• Versatile: Pairs well with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 14g

Ingredients

To make this delicious Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cranberry Orange Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 2 oranges)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

For Garnish:

• Fresh rosemary or thyme
• Additional orange slices
• Extra cranberries

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up when seared.
2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
5. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce

6. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Add the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, thyme, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and balsamic vinegar, then bring the sauce to a simmer.
9. Let the cranberries burst and the sauce thicken slightly for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Chicken

10. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
11. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
12. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

13. Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the top.
14. Add extra orange slices and cranberries for a festive presentation.
15. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes!

Ingredient Background

• Cranberries provide a tart contrast to the savory chicken, balancing the dish with their natural acidity and antioxidants.
• Oranges add a bright, citrusy sweetness that complements the cranberries. The zest intensifies the flavor!
• Honey or maple syrup naturally sweetens the sauce without overpowering the tartness.
• Balsamic vinegar deepens the sauce with a rich, slightly tangy complexity.
• Thyme and cinnamon enhance the warm, aromatic quality of the dish.

Technique Tips

• Searing the chicken properly ensures crispy skin and a deep golden-brown crust for maximum flavor.
• Simmering the sauce long enough allows the cranberries to burst and meld with the orange juice, creating a thick, rich consistency.
• Using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme boosts the dish’s aroma and enhances the presentation.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Shredded Chicken Version: Remove the bones after cooking, shred the meat, and mix it into the sauce for a pulled chicken-style dish.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Plated with Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes for an elegant meal.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use fresh cranberries for a brighter flavor, but frozen cranberries work well too.
• For extra caramelization, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes before serving.
• Adjust the sweetness to taste by adding more honey or maple syrup if needed.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Cranberry Orange Chicken: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, creamy sauce.
• Garlic Butter Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of butter before serving for a silkier sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for a leaner version.
• Reduce honey or maple syrup for a lower-sugar option.
• Swap olive oil for avocado oil for a heart-healthy alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Holiday Dinners: Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
• Romantic Dinners: Pair with a light salad and a glass of sparkling water or non-alcoholic wine.
• Family Gatherings: Double the recipe for a crowd and serve with warm dinner rolls.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or cast-iron pan
• Meat thermometer (for checking doneness)
• Citrus zester (for orange zest)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! You can absolutely substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Since chicken breasts are leaner, they cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. To prevent this, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and reduce the simmering time to 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can also slice the breasts into cutlets for more even cooking. If you prefer bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts, extend the cooking time by a few minutes.

2. What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?

Frozen cranberries work just as well and can be used straight from the freezer without thawing. If using dried cranberries, soak them in warm orange juice or water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the sauce. This helps rehydrate them and enhances their natural sweetness. However, dried cranberries tend to be sweeter than fresh ones, so you may want to reduce the honey or maple syrup slightly to maintain balance.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken actually tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors have time to meld. To make it ahead:

• Cook the dish completely, then allow it to cool.
• Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• You can also reheat it in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. However, if you are highly sensitive to gluten, make sure that your chicken broth and any seasonings you use are certified gluten-free. Some broths may contain additives that include gluten, so it’s always best to check the labels.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too tart?

Cranberries are naturally tart, and while orange juice and honey help balance that, you may still find the sauce too tangy for your taste. Here are some ways to adjust the flavor:

• Add extra honey or maple syrup to sweeten it further. Start with an additional teaspoon and adjust as needed.
• Mix in a pinch of brown sugar for a deeper sweetness.
• Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking for a smoother, richer taste.
• Use slightly less orange zest, as too much can add bitterness.

6. Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but if you don’t have fresh oranges, you can use 100% pure bottled orange juice. Avoid juices with added sugar or artificial flavors. If using bottled juice, consider adding a bit of extra zest to compensate for the loss of fresh citrusy brightness.

7. What sides go well with this dish?

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many different sides, depending on the occasion. Here are some great options:

• Grains: Serve with wild rice, quinoa, couscous, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, asparagus, or green beans complement the flavors perfectly.
• Salads: A light arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette or a winter kale salad with nuts and feta works beautifully.
• Bread: Serve with crusty artisan bread or garlic naan to mop up the flavorful sauce.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers store well and make for a delicious meal later in the week! Here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to bring back the sauce’s consistency. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a truly flavor-packed, elegant, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for both weeknights and special occasions. With savory, tangy, and subtly sweet notes, this dish brings out the best of seasonal ingredients like fresh cranberries and citrusy oranges, paired with tender, juicy chicken. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

This dish is also incredibly versatile—you can use chicken thighs or breasts, tweak the sauce’s sweetness to your liking, and even make it ahead of time for stress-free meal planning. Plus, with one-skillet convenience, you get all the deep, rich flavors with minimal cleanup.

For a holiday dinner, a romantic meal, or just a cozy night at home, this cranberry orange chicken is a must-try recipe! Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your household. Enjoy!

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