Make this Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken for a delightful dinner. The tender chicken, coated in a sweet and savory sauce, creates a perfect dish for your next cozy gathering. It’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that everyone will love!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a fantastic addition to your holiday table. The juicy chicken breasts cook beautifully in a warming cranberry-orange sauce, making it an impressive yet simple dish. With just one skillet, clean-up is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends. The combination of sweet onions, garlic, and cranberry sauce creates a delicious balance of flavors. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile—perfect for quick weeknight dinners or festive feasts. You can easily adapt it to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (can also use gluten-free all-purpose flour)
- 1/4 tsp seasoned salt
- 24 oz chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/3 cup sweet onion, very finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed or not from concentrate
- 1 tsp chicken bouillon
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
How To Make Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
To start, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures that they cook evenly and stay tender. Next, mix the flour and seasoned salt in a resealable bag. Coat the chicken breasts in the flour mixture one at a time, shaking off any excess flour.
Making the Sauce
In a large non-stick skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and sizzling. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes on one side until lightly browned. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional minute, then add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for another 3 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
Cooking Instructions
Next, whisk the chicken bouillon into the orange juice and pour it into the skillet to deglaze. Stir in the whole berry cranberry sauce and paprika, mixing well. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. For a thicker sauce, uncover and increase the heat to medium. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your preference.
Recipe Tips for Success
To ensure your Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken turns out perfectly, make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This guarantees even cooking and tenderness. Zest the orange peel before juicing to add an extra layer of flavor. It’s important to ensure the oil and butter are hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken. This helps create a nice golden crust. If you’re preparing this dish in advance, remember that leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2 to 3 days, but do not freeze them as it may alter the texture.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You can also look for gluten-free chicken bouillon to use in the sauce. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of this dish without compromising your dietary needs.
Variations to Try
Feel free to explore variations of this recipe! You can replace the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even use pork for a different twist. If you enjoy some spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little kick. You can also experiment with different types of cranberry sauce or even fresh cranberries if they’re in season!
Suggested Side Dishes
This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with fluffy mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad. Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or green beans, make a wonderful addition as well. For a festive touch, a wild rice pilaf can enhance the sweet and savory flavors of the dish. Don’t forget a simple green salad to balance the meal!
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
To store leftovers of your Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Just be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it might dry out. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth while reheating can help keep it moist and delicious.
FAQ About Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but they may alter the texture slightly. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and tend to remain juicier during cooking.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
You can thicken the sauce by simmering it with the lid off for a few more minutes. Alternatively, a cornstarch slurry can also work.
What is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through without drying it out?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Cooking on low heat and covering the skillet helps retain moisture.
Can dried cranberries be used if fresh are out of season?
Yes, dried cranberries can be substituted, but you might want to reduce the sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.
What kind of side dishes pair well with the sweet and savory flavors of this dish?
Great side dishes include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to complement the meal.
Conclusion
This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is bound to become a favorite in your home. With its delightful flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and make this delicious dish tonight!
For more festive ideas, explore my Christmas Recipes Collection.
And for additional inspiration, feel free to follow me on Pinterest for new recipe updates and seasonal favorites!
Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour can also use gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp seasoned salt
- 24 oz chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/3 cup sweet onion very finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup orange juice freshly squeezed, or not from concentrate juice
- 1 tsp chicken bouillon
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- fresh parsley optional for garnish
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
- Mix the flour and seasoned salt in a resealable bag and coat the chicken breasts.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until lightly browned.
- Flip the chicken, add garlic and onion, and cook until the onions are soft.
- Deglaze the pan with a mixture of orange juice and chicken bouillon, then stir in cranberry sauce and paprika.
- Cover and simmer on low until the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
- For a thicker sauce, uncover and increase heat to medium for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Notes
