Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

When it comes to recipes that combine elegance and ease, Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken tops the list. This one-pan dish features juicy, tender chicken thighs glazed in a sweet, tangy cranberry-orange sauce with hints of savory herbs and spices. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply preparing a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers big on flavor while keeping things simple. The balance of tart cranberries, fresh orange zest, and a touch of honey creates a festive, bright dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve it with fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce—this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. Everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time and effort.
• Seasonal and Festive: The combination of cranberries and orange is perfect for the holiday season but works beautifully year-round.
• Juicy, Flavorful Chicken: Searing the chicken first ensures crispy skin, while the sauce keeps the meat tender and juicy.
• Versatile Pairings: This dish pairs effortlessly with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy polenta.
• Easy Yet Impressive: It’s simple enough for weeknights but elegant enough to serve at dinner parties.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 12g

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1 ½ lbs)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/3 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, orange slices

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Add the orange juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, and orange zest to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the cranberries and let them cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften and burst.

Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Skillet

Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to coat it. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken cook for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and simmer the sauce uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to reduce it.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the chicken to serving plates or a platter, spoon the cranberry-orange sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh rosemary, thyme, or orange slices if desired. Serve immediately.

Ingredient Background

Chicken Thighs

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they stay moist during cooking and develop a crispy, golden-brown skin when seared. The bone also adds flavor to the dish as it cooks.

Cranberries

Cranberries add a tart, fruity flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey and orange. Fresh or frozen cranberries work equally well, making this dish accessible year-round.

Orange Juice and Zest

Freshly squeezed orange juice provides a vibrant citrus flavor, while the zest intensifies the aroma and adds a slightly bitter edge to balance the sweetness.

Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic vinegar adds depth and a tangy richness to the sauce, enhancing the overall complexity of the flavors.

Technique Tips

• Pat the Chicken Dry: This ensures a crispy sear and prevents the skin from steaming.
• Deglaze the Pan: Use the orange juice to scrape up any browned bits left in the skillet after searing the chicken; these add incredible flavor to the sauce.
• Monitor the Sauce: Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers to ensure it doesn’t reduce too quickly or burn. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Over Rice: Serve the chicken and sauce atop a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the flavors.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Pair the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal.
• As a Holiday Entrée: Present the chicken on a platter surrounded by roasted vegetables and garnished with fresh herbs for a festive centerpiece.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet retains heat well and ensures even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet isn’t large enough to sear all the chicken at once, work in batches to avoid steaming.
• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Cranberry Orange Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herbaceous Twist: Use fresh herbs like sage or tarragon instead of dried thyme and rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Boneless Chicken: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for a quicker-cooking version. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freeze: Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Skinless Chicken: For a lighter option, use skinless chicken thighs or breasts.
• Reduce Sugar: Replace the honey with a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit sweetener.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in baby carrots, green beans, or brussels sprouts for a nutrient boost.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Party Delight: Plate the chicken individually with a drizzle of sauce and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
• Holiday Table: Serve family-style on a large platter, surrounded by roasted seasonal vegetables for a festive centerpiece.
• Romantic Dinner: Pair with a glass of dry white wine and serve alongside a simple arugula salad for a romantic meal.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A 12-inch skillet works best to ensure even cooking and space for the sauce to develop.
• Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking that the chicken is fully cooked without overcooking.
• Microplane: Handy for zesting the orange finely.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used. Adjust the cooking time as they will cook faster than bone-in thighs.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

3. What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?

Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. If neither is available, dried cranberries can be used, but soak them in warm water or orange juice first to rehydrate.

4. Can I substitute the honey?

Maple syrup or brown sugar can be used in place of honey for a slightly different flavor.

5. How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce. Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce.

6. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Store the chicken and sauce together in individual containers.

7. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they may cook faster. Be sure to monitor the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

8. What wine pairs best with this dish?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the tangy, fruity flavors beautifully.

Conclusion
Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a show-stopping dish that combines simplicity with sophistication. The sweet-tart cranberry-orange sauce, paired with savory, crispy chicken, creates a meal that’s as comforting as it is impressive. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this one-pan wonder will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it today and elevate your dinner game with minimal effort and maximum flavor!

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