If you’re looking for a tantalizing blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that feels just like a warm hug on your plate, this Chicken with Cranberry and Orange Recipe is going to steal your heart. The juicy, tender chicken thighs perfectly soak up an irresistible sauce bursting with fresh cranberries and bright orange notes, creating a dish that’s both stunning and comforting. It’s ideal for any occasion where you want to wow your guests or simply enjoy something deliciously different with family. The balance of flavors is truly a celebration of fall and winter fruits in every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black cast iron pan filled with a bright, shiny red cherry sauce. The sauce has whole cherries spread evenly in a thick, glossy red liquid. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and fresh look. The pan’s handle is visible on the left side, and the rich red color of the cherries and sauce contrasts strongly with the black pan and the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Chicken with Cranberry and Orange Recipe is wonderfully straightforward thanks to the simple, fresh ingredients. Each one is essential, contributing unique tastes and textures that build up vibrant layers of flavor and a colorful, inviting dish.

3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These provide juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin that’s a perfect canvas for the sauce.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out the best in every ingredient.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds rich creaminess and helps meld the flavors beautifully.
1 teaspoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and enhancing the richness without overpowering the chicken.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced: Brings a subtle warmth and gentle zing to the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the dish depth and a classic aromatic base.
2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen): Their natural tartness brightens the sauce and adds stunning color.
2-3 oranges: You’ll need the zest of one for brightness, the juice of two for a juicy tang, and optional halfmoon slices from half an orange to adorn the dish.
½ cup chicken stock: Deepens the flavor and adds moisture to the sauce.
3-4 tablespoons pure maple syrup: Balances the tart cranberries with subtle sweetness and complexity.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Offers an herbal lift that pairs perfectly with poultry and fruit.
2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional): Adds a boozy, citrusy pop that’s a next-level flavor enhancer.

How to Make Chicken with Cranberry and Orange Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispier skin, then generously season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is crucial for building flavor and a beautifully browned crust during cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the unsalted butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes, then flip and brown the other side for another 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. That delicious crust forms the foundation of your Chicken with Cranberry and Orange Recipe’s rich flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Reduce heat slightly, then add the minced ginger and garlic to the same skillet. Sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes—these aromas bring a wonderful warmth that complements the fruitiness of the sauce perfectly.

Step 4: Build the Cranberry and Orange Sauce

Add the fresh or frozen cranberries, orange zest, juice from the oranges, and chicken stock to the skillet. Stir gently, then add the maple syrup, fresh thyme leaves, and orange liqueur if using. Simmer the sauce, allowing the cranberries to burst and the flavors to meld beautifully, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Spoon some sauce over each piece, cover, and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. This slow simmer is where everything comes together, soaking the chicken in all that luscious, fruity goodness.

Step 6: Final Touches

If you want, add a few orange halfmoon slices on top before serving for a fresh, decorative touch. Check seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed—this last moment ensures every bite sings perfectly.

How to Serve Chicken with Cranberry and Orange Recipe

A black cast iron skillet holds six golden-brown chicken pieces with a slightly crispy skin, each topped with a glossy, chunky sauce made of red cranberries. Between the chicken pieces are bright orange slices showing their juicy texture, and small sprigs of fresh green thyme scattered around. Around the skillet are several whole fresh cranberries adding extra red pops of color, and to the upper right, a white ramekin filled with more cranberries sits on a white marbled surface. Next to it is a folded red and green plaid cloth and some orange slices. The whole scene is bright and colorful with a focus on the warm tones of the chicken, oranges, and cranberries, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your dish with a handful of fresh cranberries and sprigs of thyme not only elevates the presentation but also refreshes each bite with bursts of color and herbal fragrance. The orange slices add a vibrant pop that invites everyone to dig in happily.

Side Dishes

This Chicken with Cranberry and Orange Recipe pairs wonderfully with sides that complement its bold flavors. Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy wild rice, or even a light quinoa salad with toasted nuts make perfect companions. Roasted root vegetables, seasoned simply with rosemary, also bring delightful texture and earthiness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive occasion, serve the chicken on a large platter surrounded by the colorful sauce pooled artistically. Layer fresh orange slices and thyme sprigs beside the chicken to create a beautiful centerpiece. Consider serving family-style, allowing everyone to spoon sauce generously over their portions for maximum flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it and the sauce into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this fantastic recipe again without extra fuss.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together, but be aware that the texture of the sauce may change slightly. Use a freezer-safe container or bag and keep it for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken with cranberry and orange sauce over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring regularly, until warmed through, ensuring the sauce remains luscious and the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on thighs are best for flavor and texture, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used. Just be mindful that cooking times will be shorter, and you may want to watch carefully to avoid overcooking.

Is fresh orange juice necessary?

Freshly squeezed orange juice is preferred for its vibrant, bright flavor that canned juice can’t quite replicate. If pressed for time, use a good-quality juice, but fresh will always enhance your Chicken with Cranberry and Orange Recipe the best.

Can I substitute the maple syrup?

If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave nectar can work as a substitute. They add sweetness and depth though maple syrup’s unique flavor is definitely the star in balancing the tart cranberries.

What if I don’t have orange liqueur?

The orange liqueur is optional and adds a lovely boozy note that elevates the dish. If you don’t have it, simply omit it; the sauce will still be flavorful and delicious without it.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken stock. Double-check labels on any packaged ingredients to be certain.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Chicken with Cranberry and Orange Recipe that makes every bite feel special and comforting at once. The harmony between the juicy chicken, vibrant cranberries, and citrusy orange creates a dish you’ll want to make again and again. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this beautiful recipe soon? It’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.