Print

Cranberry Orange Chicken : Flavorful & Elegant

Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe to impress your guests, this Cranberry Orange Chicken is the perfect dish!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, if preferred)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon butter

For the Cranberry Orange Sauce:

  • 1 cup (100g) fresh or frozen cranberries

  • ½ cup (120ml) fresh orange juice

  • 1 tablespoon orange zest

  • ⅓ cup (80ml) honey or maple syrup

  • ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth)

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh thyme sprigs

  • Orange slices

  • Pomegranate arils for extra color

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel.

  2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Sear the chicken skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

  3. Remove from the skillet and set aside (it will finish cooking later).

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.

  2. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the cranberries to soften and burst.

  3. Stir in balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor (optional).

Step 4: Cook the Chicken in the Sauce

  1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, skin-side up.

  2. Spoon some sauce over the chicken, then reduce heat to low.

  3. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F/75°C).

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

  1. Plate the chicken with extra cranberry orange sauce drizzled on top.

  2. Garnish with fresh thyme, orange slices, and pomegranate arils for a beautiful presentation.

  3. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

Notes

  • Use fresh cranberries – They provide the best tart flavor and texture.

  • Don’t skip the searing step – It locks in moisture and gives the chicken a golden crust.

  • Let the sauce reduce – The sauce thickens naturally as it simmers, intensifying the flavors.

  • For extra richness – Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamy twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dinner Recipe To Impress

Find it online: https://lyndyskitchen.com/cranberry-orange-chicken-flavorful-elegant/