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–+ servings
Merry

Cranberry Orange Chicken with Fresh Herbs

his Cranberry Citrus Glazed Chicken combines the bold tartness of cranberries, the fresh brightness of orange zest, and the warmth of garlic and herbs for a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether served for a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with incredible flavor. With a simple one-pan method, you’ll have a gourmet-style meal ready in no time!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (breasts for a leaner option, thighs for a juicier flavor)
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries frozen cranberries work as well
  • 1 large orange zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for browning the chicken
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary or ½ teaspoon dried
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup chicken broth or water to help make the sauce
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for extra flavor

Method
 

  1. Sear the Chicken – Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. Make the Cranberry Sauce – In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey (or maple syrup), and chicken broth. Stir well, allowing the cranberries to soften and burst.
  3. Simmer the Sauce – Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using balsamic vinegar or Dijon mustard, add it now for extra depth of flavor.
  4. Add the Chicken Back – Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the cranberry-orange glaze. Let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  5. Serve & Enjoy – Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a fresh salad. Drizzle extra sauce on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Notes

  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the cranberry glaze simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to reduce further.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey/maple syrup for a milder tartness or increasing the cranberries for a bolder tang.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, or garlic mashed potatoes.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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