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Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken is a flavorful and vibrant dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or holiday gathering.

Easy Skillet Cranberry Orange Chicken

This easy skillet cranberry orange chicken recipe delivers a delicious balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are seared to perfection and then simmered in a vibrant cranberry orange sauce, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 3/4 cup orange juice, fresh squeezed preferred
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving optional

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Stirring spoon
  • paper towels

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the cranberries, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, orange zest, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over rice, quinoa, or your favorite side.

Notes

For best results, pat the chicken dry before searing to ensure maximum browning. Adjust the amount of honey to balance the tartness of the cranberries and orange juice to your liking. Fresh or frozen cranberries can be used, or a combination of both. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.