Irresistible Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken for a Cozy Meal

Ingredients for Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The star protein for this Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken. Choose thighs for juicy, tender results that won’t dry out.
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries: These vibrant berries are essential, providing that signature tart-sweet burst. No need to thaw if using frozen!
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice: Delivers the bright, zesty citrus foundation. Freshly squeezed juice makes a significant difference in flavor.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest: Concentrated orange oils in the zest amplify the citrus aroma and taste. Don’t skip this flavor booster.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Forms the savory base for our rich skillet sauce. Low-sodium allows you to control the seasoning precisely.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden-brown. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed: Crucial for balancing the cranberries’ tartness and adding a caramelized depth. Pack it tight for accurate measurement.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: An aromatic essential, building a deep, savory flavor profile. Mince finely for even distribution throughout the sauce.
• 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic layer that enhances the overall complexity. Dice uniformly for even cooking.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Our thickening agent for a luscious, glossy sauce that clings perfectly. Mix with a little cold water first.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: The foundational seasoning, bringing all the flavors into harmony. Adjust to your personal taste preference.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and peppery kick. Freshly ground offers superior flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that beautifully complements both chicken and cranberries. Rub between fingers to release aroma.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a vibrant pop of color and fresh herbaceousness as a finishing touch. Chop right before serving.
• 1/2 fresh orange, thinly sliced: For a beautiful, zesty garnish that visually enhances the dish. A lovely final flourish!

How to Make Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

Prep Chicken:

Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Finely dice your yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves. Get everything ready for your delicious Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken.

Sear Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs until golden brown and slightly caramelized, about 4-5 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan for best results.

Sauté Aromatics:

Remove chicken and set aside. Add onion and garlic to the same skillet, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This builds the flavor foundation for the sauce.

Simmer Sauce:

Stir in chicken broth, orange juice, orange zest, cranberries, brown sugar, and dried thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for 5-7 minutes until cranberries soften slightly.

Thicken & Finish:

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then stir into the simmering sauce to thicken. Return chicken to the skillet, coating it in the vibrant sauce, and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Garnish & Serve:

Garnish your finished Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken with fresh chopped parsley and thin orange slices. Serve immediately with rice or a green salad for a truly comforting and satisfying meal.

How to Store Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

To store your Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will remain fresh for 3-4 days. If it smells off or has a slimy texture, discard it immediately – don’t do what I did and try to salvage questionable leftovers!

For make-ahead, prep aromatics and mix sauce ingredients (minus cornstarch) a day ahead. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cook chicken and sauce fresh on serving day.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. Add broth if the sauce is too thick.

What to Serve with Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

To serve this delightful Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken, simply transfer it warm from the skillet to a beautiful platter. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and extra orange slices for a vibrant presentation, perfect for any cozy meal. It’s absolutely delicious when you pair it with fluffy white rice or a crisp green salad, allowing everyone to enjoy the rich, zesty sauce.

My personal favorite way to serve this dish is alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The velvety potatoes are perfect for soaking up every drop of that irresistible cranberry orange sauce, making for an incredibly comforting and satisfying meal to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute fresh cranberries for frozen in Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken?

Yes, absolutely! Fresh or frozen cranberries work perfectly in this Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken. Just know that frozen cranberries might release a bit more liquid, so simmer the sauce a minute or two longer if needed to thicken.

→ How do I prevent my Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken from sticking to the pan?

The key is not to overcrowd your skillet. Sear chicken in batches, allowing space for browning instead of steaming. This prevents sticking and gives lovely caramelization. Ensure your olive oil is hot enough before adding chicken.

→ Can I freeze Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken for later?

While technically you can, I don’t recommend freezing this dish. The sauce, thickened with cornstarch, can separate and become watery upon thawing, affecting the texture. The chicken also tends to dry out. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

→ How long do leftovers of this Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken last in the fridge?

Your Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to transfer it to an airtight container promptly after cooling to maintain its quality and safety. Always trust your nose; if it smells off, discard it.

→ Can I make this Irresistible Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, this Irresistible Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is naturally gluten-free. All the ingredients listed, including cornstarch, are typically gluten-free. Just double-check your chicken broth label to ensure it’s certified GF. Always verify labels for hidden gluten.