If you’re craving a main course that effortlessly dazzles with both vibrant flavor and an elegant presentation, let me introduce you to Cranberry Orange Chicken. With golden, crispy-skinned chicken thighs nestled in a tangy-sweet sauce brimming with juicy cranberries, bursts of fresh orange, and a whisper of honey, this dish turns any dinner into something worth celebrating. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself to something special, Cranberry Orange Chicken is the kind of recipe that surprises you with how simple ingredients transform into a flavor-packed showstopper.

Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what goes into making this recipe a true standout. Each ingredient here plays a role—bringing bright citrus, subtle sweetness, and heartiness to every bite. Gather these simple but key flavors and you’ll see how the magic unfolds.

Chicken thighs, bone in, skin on: These deliver juicy, flavorful meat and a beautiful golden surface that soaks up all the luscious sauce.
Olive oil: For a perfect sear on the chicken and a rich base for your pan sauce.
Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors in your chicken.
Pepper: A simple seasoning that amps up the depth of the dish.
Garlic (minced): Adds a mellow, aromatic base to the sauce.
Shallot (finely diced): Sweeter and more delicate than onions, shallots give a subtle hint of sophistication to the overall taste.
Orange juice: The zesty backbone, infusing the sauce with brightness and a burst of citrus.
Chicken stock: Gives the sauce body, richness, and an extra savory edge.
Orange zest: Intensifies the citrus note, providing a fragrant lift you’ll notice with every bite.
Honey (or maple syrup): Balances the tartness of the cranberries with a kiss of sweetness.
Apple cider vinegar: Lends a tangy pop that keeps the sauce lively and prevents it from being cloying.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen, these give the sauce its jewel color, signature zing, and juicy texture.
Orange (thinly sliced): For garnish and extra flavor infusion; they make the pan look (and taste!) extra special.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures your oven is ready to get your chicken perfectly cooked and tender. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and pat the chicken thighs dry—this step helps achieve that coveted crispy skin.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until gorgeously golden brown. Don’t worry if the inside isn’t fully cooked yet—the oven will finish the job. Set the chicken aside on a plate for now.

Step 3: Build Flavor with Aromatics

Toss the finely diced shallot and minced garlic into the same skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any caramelized bits clinging to the pan. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until the shallot softens and the garlic turns fragrant. This step creates a flavor-rich base for your Cranberry Orange Chicken sauce.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the chicken stock, orange juice, orange zest, honey (or maple syrup), and apple cider vinegar. Give it a good stir to combine all those vibrant elements, then add the cranberries. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries begin to pop and the sauce slowly thickens, infusing the whole kitchen with a sweet-tart aroma.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pan, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Scatter the extra two tablespoons of cranberries and tuck orange slices around the chicken for a pop of color and flavor. Slide the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part. The result? Cranberry Orange Chicken that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Chicken

Garnishes

Top your dish with the remaining fresh cranberries and those lovely orange slices—they add both a visual flourish and extra zesty fragrance. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh thyme is another fantastic finishing touch, lending a hint of garden freshness to contrast the sauce.

Side Dishes

Cranberry Orange Chicken begs for sopping up that gorgeous sauce, so fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even buttered couscous are perfect partners. If you’d rather keep it light and bright, roasted green beans or a simple arugula salad with vinaigrette make the ideal, crisp counterpoints.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party vibe, serve the chicken directly in the skillet at the table—just sprinkle the cranberries and oranges over the top for a rustic, inviting style. If you’re feeling adventurous, shred the chicken and pile it into warm buns for a zesty sandwich, or serve over greens for a bright, winter-inspired salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow the chicken and sauce to cool to room temperature before sealing; this preserves both flavor and tenderness.

Freezing

You can freeze Cranberry Orange Chicken for up to two months. Let it cool completely, then portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. When you’re ready for a quick, flavorful meal, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking the chicken. The flavors meld and deepen with time, so don’t be surprised if the second round tastes even better!

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this Cranberry Orange Chicken?

Absolutely! If you opt for boneless, skinless thighs or breasts, you’ll want to shorten both the stovetop searing and oven baking times slightly. The skin-on, bone-in version just brings richer flavor and a juicier bite, but the bright sauce will shine either way.

Are fresh or frozen cranberries better?

You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this Cranberry Orange Chicken. Fresh cranberries hold their shape a bit more, while frozen ones break down a little quicker and thicken the sauce. Both will give you that signature tartness and color.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Chicken ahead for a holiday meal?

Definitely! This dish holds up wonderfully as a make-ahead main. Prepare it up to the baking step, let cool, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature, then bake until heated through and finish with your garnishes for a stress-free holiday feast.

What’s the best way to get crispy chicken skin?

The key is to thoroughly dry the chicken before seasoning and make sure your oil is nice and hot before searing. Don’t overcrowd the skillet—give the skin room to golden up and crisp evenly for the best Cranberry Orange Chicken texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, Cranberry Orange Chicken is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to verify your chicken stock is certified gluten-free if you have any concerns or sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give Cranberry Orange Chicken a try—it’s one of those rare recipes that feels both comforting and celebratory at the same time. Whether it graces your holiday table or jazzes up a weeknight dinner, the flavors are sure to win you over. Let me know how it turns out for you!

Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 30 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 5–6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A delightful and tangy Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe that combines the flavors of juicy chicken thighs with a sweet and citrusy orange-cranberry sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner with a festive touch.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
Sear the chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet until golden on both sides. Set aside.
Saute aromatics: Saute shallot and garlic until softened.
Make the sauce: Add chicken stock, orange juice, zest, apple cider vinegar, honey, and cranberries. Simmer until cranberries soften.
Assemble and bake: Place chicken in the pan, top with sauce, cranberries, and orange slices. Bake for 15-20 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, Stovetop
Cuisine: American