If you’re searching for a dish that brings color, festive flavors, and total comfort to your dinner table, look no further than Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken. Picture juicy, golden-brown chicken tucked in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce with bursts of bright cranberries and zesty orange. It’s an irresistible, one-pan wonder that positively glows with fresh flavor and just the right amount of sophistication, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and holiday gatherings.

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken lies in its harmony of simple ingredients; each one is essential for creating a sauce that’s both vibrant and layered with flavor. Every component brings a little magic, from the crispy chicken to that gorgeous shine of citrus and berries.

Chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, chicken thighs hold up beautifully to simmering and soak up the bright sauce.
Olive oil: For a golden sear and rich flavor base that starts the dish off right.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Fresh orange juice: Delivers sunshiney brightness and perfectly balances the cranberries’ tart notes.
Orange zest: Packs in deep citrus aroma for a layered orange flavor.
Chicken broth: Keeps the sauce silky and ties all the savory elements together.
Honey: Adds gentle sweetness that perfectly contrasts the cranberries’ natural tang.
Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle background heat and helps emulsify the sauce.
Garlic: For a flavorful shot of savory depth—always a must!
Fresh or frozen cranberries: The star for color and the signature tart pop in every bite.
Ground cinnamon: Adds subtle warmth and a holiday twist.
Ground cloves: A little goes a long way for earthy-spicy aroma.
Butter: Stirred in at the end for lushness and a glossy finish.
Fresh thyme or parsley: These bright herbs add freckled green freshness for the perfect garnish.

How to Make Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. This basic step is the foundation for maximum flavor throughout the dish. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes on each side until they’re just golden but not fully cooked through. Don’t worry—these will simmer further with the sauce and become perfectly tender. Set the chicken aside on a plate.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

With the chicken out of the skillet (don’t wipe it clean—the brown bits are pure flavor!), turn the heat down to medium. Pour in the fresh orange juice and add the orange zest, chicken broth, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Scatter in the cranberries, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir it all together and let it simmer gently for about 3–5 minutes. As it simmers, you’ll notice the cranberries just beginning to burst and the sauce starting to thicken a bit.

Step 3: Return the Chicken & Simmer

It’s time for the chicken to rejoin the party! Carefully place the seared thighs back into the skillet, nestling them in among the bubbling cranberries and citrus. Spoon some of that beautiful sauce over each piece, then cover your skillet. Simmer everything together for 12–15 minutes. The chicken finishes cooking in this fragrant bath and soaks up the sweet, savory, and tangy notes, while the sauce reduces and becomes spoonable and glossy.

Step 4: Finish With Butter and Garnish

For the ultimate velvety finish, stir in a tablespoon of butter right at the end. This touch ties the sauce together and makes it extra luscious. Sprinkle with generous handfuls of fresh thyme or parsley for just-picked freshness and a vivid pop of green. And there you have it—Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is ready to wow!

How to Serve Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

Garnishes

Think bright! I love scattering extra fresh herbs over the top, especially thyme or parsley. If you want to go a step further, try a little extra orange zest for dramatic flair—the citrus aroma leaps out with every bite. Whole cranberries look gorgeous nestled on the platter for a festive touch as well.

Side Dishes

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is luscious spooned over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a buttery heap of roasted vegetables. The sauce pairs beautifully with grains, especially wild rice or quinoa, and you can never go wrong with steamed green beans or a crisp salad to round things out.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, serve this right from the skillet for a rustic, homey feel. For an elegant dinner, arrange chicken on a platter with cranberries and herbs, then drizzle the sauce over the top. Pair with orange slices or edible flowers for extra wow. Or just keep things simple and pass extra sauce at the table—it’s too delicious not to share!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. The flavors meld even further overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or quick dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you need to stock your freezer, let the chicken and sauce cool completely. Transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the sauce’s vibrant flavor and silky texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring and spooning the sauce over the chicken as it warms. A splash of fresh orange juice or chicken broth will revive the sauce if it thickens up in the fridge or freezer. Microwave reheating works in a pinch—just cover and heat in one-minute bursts until hot throughout.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Just substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts and adjust the cook time since breasts cook a bit more quickly. Slice thicker breasts in half if needed to ensure even cooking and keep them from drying out.

Is it okay to use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly here! Add them straight to the pan without thawing. The sauce may take an extra minute or two to thicken, but the flavor and color will be just as beautiful.

Can I make Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken ahead for a party?

Definitely! This dish reheats beautifully, so you can make it a day in advance. Store in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop, stirring the sauce occasionally. Add fresh garnishes just before serving for that just-made look.

What does the butter do at the end?

Stirring in butter at the very end enriches the sauce, giving it a silky, luxurious texture and that mouthwatering sheen. It’s a chef’s trick for leveling up any pan sauce!

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) or when juices run clear. Simmering in the sauce not only ensures the chicken cooks gently but also keeps it moist and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself coming back to, whether it’s a Tuesday night or a special gathering with friends. Its bold flavors, festive colors, and effortless elegance make it a total crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you just might add it to your list of weeknight favorites and holiday must-haves!

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

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4.9 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe combines the tangy flavors of cranberry and orange with savory chicken thighs for a delicious and festive main course. The dish is cooked on the stovetop, making it a convenient option for a holiday dinner or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce:

1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/3 cup chicken broth
1/3 cup honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1 tablespoon butter

Garnish:

Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Season the chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add orange juice, orange zest, chicken broth, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, cranberries, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir and simmer for 3–5 minutes until the cranberries begin to burst.
Cook the chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and cover. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Finish and serve: Stir in the butter for a glossy finish. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve.