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Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken Flavorful Weeknight Meal

by on October 1, 2025

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Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Try my Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken. This dish pairs juicy chicken with a bright cranberry-orange sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but special enough for guests. With easy steps and fresh, flavorful ingredients, you can serve a meal that delights everyone. Let’s dive into how you can create this scrumptious dinner in no time!

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries - 1 large orange (zest and juice) - 1/4 cup honey - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried) - Salt and pepper, to taste In this recipe, we use chicken breasts as the main protein. They cook fast and stay juicy. Fresh or frozen cranberries add a nice tartness. The orange zest and juice brighten the dish. Honey brings a touch of sweetness, while olive oil helps the chicken sear well. Garlic and thyme add depth and warmth. Don't forget salt and pepper to season the chicken! - Fresh parsley - Whole cranberries Garnishes can elevate your dish's look and taste. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Whole cranberries can be a fun touch on the plate. They also hint at the flavors in the dish. Using these simple garnishes can make your meal feel special! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Make sure to coat both sides well. This step adds a lot of flavor to the chicken. Now, heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil once the skillet is hot. Look for the oil to shimmer before adding the chicken. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes. The chicken should turn golden brown and reach 165°F inside. Once done, take the chicken out and keep it warm on a plate. Next, lower the heat a bit. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Stir it for about a minute. Watch it closely to avoid burning. You want it fragrant, not bitter. Now it’s time for the sauce! Add cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice to the skillet. Pour in the honey to balance the tartness. Let this mix gently simmer for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries burst and a sauce starts to form. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Nestle it into the cranberry-orange sauce. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up all those tasty flavors. Remove the skillet from the heat. For a nice look, serve the chicken on a platter with the sauce on top. You can add whole cranberries and a sprig of parsley for a pretty touch. When making skillet cranberry orange chicken, choose boneless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and stay juicy. You can also use bone-in chicken for more flavor. If you do, adjust cooking time. Always check that chicken is cooked through. The safe internal temperature is 165°F. For juicy chicken, avoid overcooking. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Make the sauce your own! Try adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for warmth. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. Balance the sauce by adjusting the honey. If you want it sweeter, add more honey. If you prefer tartness, use less. Taste as you cook to get it just right. Searing the chicken is key for flavor. Heat the skillet until the oil shimmers, then add the chicken. Let it sear without moving it for the best crust. Use a meat thermometer to check if it's done. This ensures the chicken stays moist and safe to eat. For perfect results, aim for 5-6 minutes on each side. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal juiciness and safety. Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: If using frozen cranberries, thaw them beforehand for a better texture and flavor in your sauce. Enhance the Flavor: Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberry sauce for an extra layer of depth and complexity. Garnishing Tips: For added visual appeal, use pomegranate seeds along with parsley as a garnish for a vibrant color contrast. {{image_4}} If you want to switch up the protein, turkey is a great choice. Turkey breasts can replace chicken breasts. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for. You will need to cook turkey a bit longer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Tofu is another option for a plant-based dish. Use firm or extra-firm tofu for best results. Press the tofu to remove extra water. Cut it into thick slabs. Cook it the same way as chicken, but watch the time. It may take about 5-7 minutes per side to get a nice golden crust. You can also try using blueberries or raspberries in place of cranberries. Blueberries give a sweet and mild flavor. They will not be as tart as cranberries. Raspberries can add a nice balance of sweet and tart. They are softer and will break down more quickly in the sauce. When you change the fruit, the sauce will taste different. Blueberries will give you a sweeter sauce, while raspberries will be more tangy. Experiment to find your favorite flavor! To make a complete meal, serve the chicken with rice or quinoa. These grains soak up the sauce well. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans. They add color and nutrition to your plate. For a fresh touch, consider a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Enjoy mixing and matching sides to make your dinner special! To keep Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps the flavors intact. Place the chicken and sauce together; they pair well in the fridge. You can safely keep it for up to three days. After that, the chicken may dry out and lose taste. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist. Cooking chicken in a skillet takes about 12 to 15 minutes. First, sear the meat for 5 to 6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. Make sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps the juices inside, making it tender and juicy. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce as directed. Cool the meal completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Heat in a skillet until warmed through. You can serve this chicken with many side dishes. Here are some great options: - Rice or quinoa for a filling base - Roasted vegetables for added flavor and color - A fresh green salad for crunch and freshness - Mashed potatoes for a comforting touch These sides will balance the sweet and tart flavors of the chicken. Yes, this recipe is healthy. It uses lean chicken and fresh cranberries. These ingredients provide protein and vitamins. You can adjust it to fit your diet. For lower sugar, reduce honey or use a sugar substitute. If you prefer, serve it with whole grains or more veggies. This can boost fiber and nutrients in your meal. This blog post shared a tasty recipe for skillet cranberry orange chicken. You learned about key ingredients like chicken, cranberries, and orange juice. We covered step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for choosing the right chicken, and ways to customize your dish. I hope you're excited to try this recipe. It's simple, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
  2. Flavorful Combination: The tartness of cranberries paired with the sweetness of honey and the brightness of orange creates a delicious symphony of flavors.
  3. Healthy Ingredients: Featuring lean chicken breasts and fresh fruits, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
  4. Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the cranberry sauce and fresh parsley make this dish visually stunning for any occasion.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

– 1 large orange (zest and juice)

– 1/4 cup honey

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)

– Salt and pepper, to taste

In this recipe, we use chicken breasts as the main protein. They cook fast and stay juicy. Fresh or frozen cranberries add a nice tartness. The orange zest and juice brighten the dish. Honey brings a touch of sweetness, while olive oil helps the chicken sear well. Garlic and thyme add depth and warmth. Don’t forget salt and pepper to season the chicken!

Optional Garnishes

– Fresh parsley

– Whole cranberries

Garnishes can elevate your dish’s look and taste. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Whole cranberries can be a fun touch on the plate. They also hint at the flavors in the dish. Using these simple garnishes can make your meal feel special!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

First, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Make sure to coat both sides well. This step adds a lot of flavor to the chicken.

Sear the Chicken

Now, heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil once the skillet is hot. Look for the oil to shimmer before adding the chicken. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes. The chicken should turn golden brown and reach 165°F inside. Once done, take the chicken out and keep it warm on a plate.

Sauté the Garlic

Next, lower the heat a bit. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Stir it for about a minute. Watch it closely to avoid burning. You want it fragrant, not bitter.

Make the Cranberry Sauce

Now it’s time for the sauce! Add cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice to the skillet. Pour in the honey to balance the tartness. Let this mix gently simmer for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries burst and a sauce starts to form.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Nestle it into the cranberry-orange sauce. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up all those tasty flavors.

Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat. For a nice look, serve the chicken on a platter with the sauce on top. You can add whole cranberries and a sprig of parsley for a pretty touch.

Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Right Chicken

When making skillet cranberry orange chicken, choose boneless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and stay juicy. You can also use bone-in chicken for more flavor. If you do, adjust cooking time. Always check that chicken is cooked through. The safe internal temperature is 165°F. For juicy chicken, avoid overcooking. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Customizing the Sauce

Make the sauce your own! Try adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for warmth. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. Balance the sauce by adjusting the honey. If you want it sweeter, add more honey. If you prefer tartness, use less. Taste as you cook to get it just right.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the chicken is key for flavor. Heat the skillet until the oil shimmers, then add the chicken. Let it sear without moving it for the best crust. Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done. This ensures the chicken stays moist and safe to eat. For perfect results, aim for 5-6 minutes on each side.

Pro Tips

  1. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal juiciness and safety.
  2. Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: If using frozen cranberries, thaw them beforehand for a better texture and flavor in your sauce.
  3. Enhance the Flavor: Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberry sauce for an extra layer of depth and complexity.
  4. Garnishing Tips: For added visual appeal, use pomegranate seeds along with parsley as a garnish for a vibrant color contrast.

Variations

Alternative Protein Options

If you want to switch up the protein, turkey is a great choice. Turkey breasts can replace chicken breasts. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for. You will need to cook turkey a bit longer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Tofu is another option for a plant-based dish. Use firm or extra-firm tofu for best results. Press the tofu to remove extra water. Cut it into thick slabs. Cook it the same way as chicken, but watch the time. It may take about 5-7 minutes per side to get a nice golden crust.

Different Fruit Options

You can also try using blueberries or raspberries in place of cranberries. Blueberries give a sweet and mild flavor. They will not be as tart as cranberries. Raspberries can add a nice balance of sweet and tart. They are softer and will break down more quickly in the sauce.

When you change the fruit, the sauce will taste different. Blueberries will give you a sweeter sauce, while raspberries will be more tangy. Experiment to find your favorite flavor!

Serving Suggestions

To make a complete meal, serve the chicken with rice or quinoa. These grains soak up the sauce well. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans. They add color and nutrition to your plate.

For a fresh touch, consider a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Enjoy mixing and matching sides to make your dinner special!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To keep Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps the flavors intact. Place the chicken and sauce together; they pair well in the fridge. You can safely keep it for up to three days. After that, the chicken may dry out and lose taste.

Freezing Tips

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook chicken in a skillet?

Cooking chicken in a skillet takes about 12 to 15 minutes. First, sear the meat for 5 to 6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. Make sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps the juices inside, making it tender and juicy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce as directed. Cool the meal completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Heat in a skillet until warmed through.

What can I serve with skillet cranberry orange chicken?

You can serve this chicken with many side dishes. Here are some great options:

– Rice or quinoa for a filling base

– Roasted vegetables for added flavor and color

– A fresh green salad for crunch and freshness

– Mashed potatoes for a comforting touch

These sides will balance the sweet and tart flavors of the chicken.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, this recipe is healthy. It uses lean chicken and fresh cranberries. These ingredients provide protein and vitamins. You can adjust it to fit your diet. For lower sugar, reduce honey or use a sugar substitute. If you prefer, serve it with whole grains or more veggies. This can boost fiber and nutrients in your meal.

This blog post shared a tasty recipe for skillet cranberry orange chicken. You learned about key ingredients like chicken, cranberries, and orange juice. We covered step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for choosing the right chicken, and ways to customize your dish.

I hope you’re excited to try this recipe. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Enjoy your cooking adventur

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries - 1 large orange (zest and juice) - 1/4 cup honey - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried) - Salt and pepper, to taste In this recipe, we use chicken breasts as the main protein. They cook fast and stay juicy. Fresh or frozen cranberries add a nice tartness. The orange zest and juice brighten the dish. Honey brings a touch of sweetness, while olive oil helps the chicken sear well. Garlic and thyme add depth and warmth. Don't forget salt and pepper to season the chicken! - Fresh parsley - Whole cranberries Garnishes can elevate your dish's look and taste. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Whole cranberries can be a fun touch on the plate. They also hint at the flavors in the dish. Using these simple garnishes can make your meal feel special! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Make sure to coat both sides well. This step adds a lot of flavor to the chicken. Now, heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil once the skillet is hot. Look for the oil to shimmer before adding the chicken. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes. The chicken should turn golden brown and reach 165°F inside. Once done, take the chicken out and keep it warm on a plate. Next, lower the heat a bit. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Stir it for about a minute. Watch it closely to avoid burning. You want it fragrant, not bitter. Now it’s time for the sauce! Add cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice to the skillet. Pour in the honey to balance the tartness. Let this mix gently simmer for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries burst and a sauce starts to form. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Nestle it into the cranberry-orange sauce. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up all those tasty flavors. Remove the skillet from the heat. For a nice look, serve the chicken on a platter with the sauce on top. You can add whole cranberries and a sprig of parsley for a pretty touch. When making skillet cranberry orange chicken, choose boneless chicken breasts. They cook quickly and stay juicy. You can also use bone-in chicken for more flavor. If you do, adjust cooking time. Always check that chicken is cooked through. The safe internal temperature is 165°F. For juicy chicken, avoid overcooking. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Make the sauce your own! Try adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for warmth. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. Balance the sauce by adjusting the honey. If you want it sweeter, add more honey. If you prefer tartness, use less. Taste as you cook to get it just right. Searing the chicken is key for flavor. Heat the skillet until the oil shimmers, then add the chicken. Let it sear without moving it for the best crust. Use a meat thermometer to check if it's done. This ensures the chicken stays moist and safe to eat. For perfect results, aim for 5-6 minutes on each side. Pro Tips Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal juiciness and safety. Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: If using frozen cranberries, thaw them beforehand for a better texture and flavor in your sauce. Enhance the Flavor: Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the cranberry sauce for an extra layer of depth and complexity. Garnishing Tips: For added visual appeal, use pomegranate seeds along with parsley as a garnish for a vibrant color contrast. {{image_4}} If you want to switch up the protein, turkey is a great choice. Turkey breasts can replace chicken breasts. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for. You will need to cook turkey a bit longer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Tofu is another option for a plant-based dish. Use firm or extra-firm tofu for best results. Press the tofu to remove extra water. Cut it into thick slabs. Cook it the same way as chicken, but watch the time. It may take about 5-7 minutes per side to get a nice golden crust. You can also try using blueberries or raspberries in place of cranberries. Blueberries give a sweet and mild flavor. They will not be as tart as cranberries. Raspberries can add a nice balance of sweet and tart. They are softer and will break down more quickly in the sauce. When you change the fruit, the sauce will taste different. Blueberries will give you a sweeter sauce, while raspberries will be more tangy. Experiment to find your favorite flavor! To make a complete meal, serve the chicken with rice or quinoa. These grains soak up the sauce well. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans. They add color and nutrition to your plate. For a fresh touch, consider a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Enjoy mixing and matching sides to make your dinner special! To keep Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps the flavors intact. Place the chicken and sauce together; they pair well in the fridge. You can safely keep it for up to three days. After that, the chicken may dry out and lose taste. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the chicken cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist. Cooking chicken in a skillet takes about 12 to 15 minutes. First, sear the meat for 5 to 6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. Make sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps the juices inside, making it tender and juicy. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and sauce as directed. Cool the meal completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Heat in a skillet until warmed through. You can serve this chicken with many side dishes. Here are some great options: - Rice or quinoa for a filling base - Roasted vegetables for added flavor and color - A fresh green salad for crunch and freshness - Mashed potatoes for a comforting touch These sides will balance the sweet and tart flavors of the chicken. Yes, this recipe is healthy. It uses lean chicken and fresh cranberries. These ingredients provide protein and vitamins. You can adjust it to fit your diet. For lower sugar, reduce honey or use a sugar substitute. If you prefer, serve it with whole grains or more veggies. This can boost fiber and nutrients in your meal. This blog post shared a tasty recipe for skillet cranberry orange chicken. You learned about key ingredients like chicken, cranberries, and orange juice. We covered step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for choosing the right chicken, and ways to customize your dish. I hope you're excited to try this recipe. It's simple, flavorful, and perfect for any meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

A delicious and vibrant chicken dish featuring a sweet and tangy cranberry-orange sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen cranberries, thawed)
  • 1 large orange (zested and juiced)
  • 1 quarter cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and thyme, ensuring an even coating on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
  • Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for approximately 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate, keeping it warm.
  • Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Take care not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
  • Make the Cranberry Sauce: Add the cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice into the skillet. Stir in the honey to balance the tartness of the cranberries. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5-7 minutes. You'll know it’s ready when the cranberries begin to burst, and a sauce begins to form.
  • Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the cranberry-orange sauce. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-4 minutes, letting it absorb those delicious flavors.
  • Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. To finish, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Notes

Serve the chicken on a platter with the cranberry sauce spooned generously over the top. A few whole cranberries and a sprig of parsley can be added for an elegant touch!
Keyword chicken, cranberry, easy, orange, skillet

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