Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken served on a plate garnished with fresh herbs.

Table of Contents

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors with juicy chicken. It’s perfect for family dinners, festive occasions, or a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels. The vibrant colors and flavors will impress anyone who tries it!

How to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, fresh orange juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the top.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
  5. For added flavor, you can baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through cooking.
  6. Serve garnished with fresh cranberries and orange slices if desired.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken pairs well with rice or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a light meal. The sweet sauce adds a nice touch, making it great for both special occasions and everyday meals. A glass of orange juice or white wine complements this dish perfectly.

How to Store Cranberry Orange Chicken

To store leftover Cranberry Orange Chicken, let it cool completely and place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, consider freezing the chicken. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Chicken

  • Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
  • You can add chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
  • Be careful not to overbake the chicken, as it can dry out. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • If you like a crunch, add some chopped nuts as a topping after baking.

Variation

You can easily switch up the recipe by using turkey breasts or pork chops instead of chicken. The sauce will work wonderfully with these meats as well. For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce for added flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

What can I use if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
You can substitute cranberry sauce with a mix of fresh cranberries, sugar, and a little bit of water to create a homemade sauce.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can make Cranberry Orange Chicken in a slow cooker. Just place all the ingredients in and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Print
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Cranberry Orange Chicken


  • Author: lydia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors with juicy chicken, perfect for family dinners or festive occasions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cranberries and orange slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce, fresh orange juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the top.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
  5. For added flavor, you can baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through cooking.
  6. Serve garnished with fresh cranberries and orange slices if desired.

Notes

Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor. You can add chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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Pro Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Lydia, the passionate culinary creator behind Ninja Machine Recipes! I firmly believe that amazing food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here at Ninja Machine Recipes, I share my favorite recipes that bring loved ones together around the dinner table – from quick weeknight solutions to special celebration treats.

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