If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances fruity brightness with savory goodness, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe. It’s one of those magical meals where tender chicken breasts are bathed in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spiced cranberry-orange sauce that feels like a cozy celebration on your plate. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner that needs a little excitement or a festive addition to your holiday table, this recipe never fails to impress and comfort at the same time.

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the thing: this recipe calls for some simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create a symphony of flavors. Each one plays an essential part in flavor, texture, or color — from the zest of fresh orange adding brightness to the warmth of cinnamon and ginger that bring out the depth of the sauce.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas for soaking up all that luscious sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection while adding richness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor without overpowering the dish.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick for balance.
1/2 cup chopped onion: Brings gentle sweetness and body to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with savory warmth.
1 cup fresh cranberries: The star ingredient delivering tart bursts throughout.
1/2 cup orange juice: Adds juicy citrus tang that brightens the whole skillet.
1 tablespoon orange zest: Intensifies the fresh orange flavor without extra acidity.
1/4 cup honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally and balances the tangy fruits.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity and depth to the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers earthy herbal notes that complement the fruit.
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: A warming spice that gently lifts the flavor profile.
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a hint of spice and brightness.
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: This slurry thickens the sauce to a perfect glossy finish.

How to Make Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear each side for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want a beautiful golden crust that locks in the juices. Once seared, remove the chicken and let it rest on the side. This step is key because it builds flavor and sets the stage for the luscious sauce.

Step 2: Build the Sauce Base

Into the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion. Cooking it down for 2 to 3 minutes softens its texture and releases a subtle sweetness that balances the tart cranberries. Then add garlic and stir for another 30 seconds — garlic’s aroma will make your kitchen smell incredible and infuse the sauce with a savory depth that’s simply irresistible.

Step 3: Add the Cranberries and Liquids

Now, bring on the star players: fresh cranberries, orange juice, and orange zest. These ingredients deliver bright, tangy notes that brighten each bite. Stir in honey to provide natural sweetness while balsamic vinegar lends a tangy complexity. Sprinkle in thyme, cinnamon, and ginger to add a layer of warmth and herbal charm. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for about 5 to 6 minutes — this is when those cranberries start bursting and the sauce begins to thicken beautifully.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce and Finish Cooking

Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then slowly stir it into your simmering sauce to thicken up that glorious glaze in just 1 to 2 minutes. Place the chicken back into the skillet, spooning generous amounts of the sauce over each piece. Cover the pan and let everything simmer gently on low for 10 to 12 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and soak in all the delicious flavors.

How to Serve Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves over each plate for a pop of green freshness that complements the rich sauce. For an extra touch of citrus aroma, add a little extra orange zest right on top. These simple garnishes transform the dish from lovely to stunning.

Side Dishes

This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy mashed potatoes or a bed of steamed rice that soaks up every drop of the sweet and tangy sauce. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans work beautifully for a healthy balance. If you want a lighter option, a crisp side salad with citrus vinaigrette will echo the flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the chicken atop a nest of buttery egg noodles or wild rice blend. If you’re feeling fancy, plate each chicken breast with a drizzle of sauce and a few whole cranberries for a festive look. This dish also shines when served family-style on a large platter, encouraging everyone to dig in and enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though this recipe rarely disappoints the first round), store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making the next meal just as delightful.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve texture and taste. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or orange juice if the sauce thickened too much. Stir continuously to warm evenly without drying out the chicken. Microwaving works too, but the skillet method keeps the sauce silky and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more forgiving since they stay juicy and tender, plus they add a bit more rich flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly if the thighs are particularly thick.

Is fresh cranberry necessary, or can I use frozen or dried?

Fresh cranberries are best because they burst open in the sauce and add a beautiful tartness and texture. Frozen cranberries can work in a pinch, but dried cranberries will change the texture and sweetness significantly.

Can this recipe be made spicier?

Definitely! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the spices boosts heat without overpowering the dish. It creates a lovely warm kick against the sweet and tart flavors.

What can I substitute for orange juice if I don’t have any?

You can use fresh lemon juice diluted with a little water, or even tangerine or grapefruit juice for a different citrus twist. Just note that each will tweak the flavor slightly but still taste delicious.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe is gluten-free as written, since it uses cornstarch as a thickener rather than flour. Just double-check all your ingredients to ensure they’re labeled gluten-free if you’re highly sensitive.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it transforms simple chicken into something truly special with those vibrant fruity, sweet, and warmly spiced flavors. It’s perfect for bringing people together around the dinner table and celebrating delicious home cooking. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I did!

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 57 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a tangy-sweet sauce made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and warming spices. This gluten-free meal offers a delightful balance of citrus and berry notes, enhanced with a hint of balsamic vinegar and aromatic herbs, making it a festive and healthy main course option.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce

1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/2 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch slurry)

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Instructions

Seasoning and Searing the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper evenly on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Sautéing Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until tender and softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
Preparing the Sauce: Add fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, balsamic vinegar, dried thyme, cinnamon, and ground ginger to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the cranberries to burst and the sauce to begin thickening.
Thickening the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and continue to simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. The sauce will thicken further and become glossy.
Cooking the Chicken Through: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Finishing and Serving: Once cooked, serve the chicken warm with extra cranberry orange sauce spooned over each breast. This dish pairs beautifully with rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Notes

You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred for a juicier texture.
For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while simmering.
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables for a full plate.

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