Name: Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American / Fusion
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries; 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2‑3 oranges, freshly squeezed); 1 tsp orange zest; 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste); ½ cup chicken broth; 1‑2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary (optional); 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening sauce)

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Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together sweet, tart, and savory elements in the most comforting way. I love how the tangy cranberries and bright citrus balance the juicy, golden-seared chicken. It’s a one-pan wonder that feels elegant enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something special. The sauce is a beautiful mix of sweet oranges, tart cranberries, and savory herbs that soak into the chicken as it simmers. It’s a gorgeous, festive dish that works year-round — especially during fall and winter when I’m craving cozy flavors with a fresh twist. Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil or butter
Salt and black pepper
Garlic, minced
Fresh or frozen cranberries
Orange juice (freshly squeezed)
Orange zest
Honey or maple syrup (to balance the tartness)
Chicken broth
Fresh thyme or rosemary (for depth of flavor)
Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Directions

I season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it in a large skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil until golden on both sides. I set it aside.
In the same skillet, I sauté garlic until fragrant, then add cranberries, orange juice, zest, honey, and a splash of chicken broth.
I let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, until the cranberries begin to burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
I return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and let everything simmer together for about 10–12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and infused with the sauce.
If I want the sauce thicker, I stir in a cornstarch slurry at the end and let it bubble for another minute or two.
I garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook — ready in just 35 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add sliced onions or shallots for more savory depth, or throw in a few orange slices for a citrusy garnish. I’ve also made it with bone-in chicken thighs — I just extend the cooking time slightly. For a holiday twist, I sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or allspice.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. It reheats well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

FAQs

Can I use dried cranberries?

For this recipe, I stick to fresh or frozen cranberries for the tartness and texture. Dried cranberries are too sweet and chewy for the sauce to work properly.

Can I use store-bought orange juice?

Yes, but I prefer fresh for the brightest flavor. I often zest the orange before juicing to get the most out of it.

What can I serve with this?

I love it with rice, mashed potatoes, or couscous to soak up the sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad also work beautifully.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, I make the chicken and sauce ahead, then gently reheat in the skillet before serving. The flavors actually deepen overnight.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

I check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It should be firm, juicy, and easy to cut through.

Conclusion

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is one of those dishes that feels both comforting and elevated. I love how the tart cranberries and sweet citrus create a bright, seasonal sauce that brings out the best in the chicken. Whether I’m cooking for myself or for guests, this dish always feels special — and it all comes together in one pan.