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Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

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A flavorful skillet chicken dish simmered in a sweet and tangy cranberry orange sauce that creates a glossy glaze with bright citrus and savory notes.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts or boneless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
  5. Pour in orange juice, orange zest, chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey or maple syrup. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add the cranberries and cook for a few minutes until the sauce begins to develop flavor.
  7. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce.
  8. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and coated in the sauce.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Notes

  • Boneless chicken thighs stay especially juicy in this recipe.
  • Dried cranberries work well; add extra broth if needed to soften them.
  • Add ginger or chili flakes for a spicy variation.
  • A small pat of butter can be stirred into the sauce for extra richness.
  • Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/skillet-cranberry-orange-chicken/