Cranberry Orange Chicken

olivia

Published:

January 4, 2026

Delicious plate of Cranberry Orange Chicken drizzled with cranberry sauce

This Cranberry Orange Chicken brings bright fruit taste to a simple meal. You can make it in one pan and bake it. If you like sweet, bright chicken, see 3-ingredient orange chicken for another easy idea.

why make this recipe

This dish mixes tart cranberries and sweet orange for a clear fresh taste. You cook real fruit with the chicken for a home feel. For a plain orange option, try this easy orange chicken recipe to learn simple steps.

how to make Cranberry Orange Chicken

You brown the chicken first to lock in the juice. Then you pour a cranberry and orange mix over the chicken. You finish it in the oven until the meat is done. You can read more on a similar roast method at roasted orange chicken tips.

Ingredients :

4 chicken breasts
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 orange, zested and juiced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

You can use the orange zest and juice to boost the taste like in some roasted orange chicken ideas.

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and brown them in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
In a bowl, combine cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, chicken broth, and honey.
Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the browned chicken in the skillet.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

For another oven idea that uses a simple sauce, you can read about baked ranch chicken.

how to serve Cranberry Orange Chicken

Serve the chicken with plain rice or soft mashed potatoes. Spoon the sauce and cranberries over the chicken. Add a small green salad for a bright plate. Fresh parsley makes the dish look nice.

how to store Cranberry Orange Chicken

Let the dish cool to room temp for up to two hours. Put it in a covered dish or a sealed box. Keep it in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

tips to make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Use fresh orange juice for the best bright taste.
If you use frozen cranberries, do not thaw them first.
Brown the chicken well to keep it juicy in the oven.
Taste the sauce before baking and add a bit more honey if you want it sweeter.

variation (if any)

You can add a small onion or sliced apple to the sauce for more sweet notes. Try bone-in chicken pieces, but add 10 to 15 minutes to the bake time. You can swap honey for maple syrup for a mild change.

FAQs (minimum three FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes. Do not thaw them first. They still give good taste.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Brown the chicken first, then add the sauce and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours.

Q: Is this dish good for kids?
A: Yes. The sauce is sweet and tart but mild. You can add less orange for a softer taste.

Q: Can I use dark meat like thighs?
A: Yes. Thighs stay juicy. You may need to bake a bit longer.

Q: How do I know the chicken is done?
A: The meat should reach 165°F (74°C) or be white inside with no pink.