Cranberry Chicken is one of those dishes that surprises you in the best possible way. At first glance, the pairing of tart cranberries with tender chicken might seem unusual, but once you taste it, the balance of flavors feels completely natural. The sweetness of the sauce, the subtle tang, and the savory depth from the chicken create a comforting meal that works beautifully for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
I first tried this recipe when I wanted something festive yet effortless. I experimented by adding a splash of orange juice to brighten the sauce, and it worked wonderfully, giving the dish an extra layer of freshness. The best part is how simple it is to prepare with pantry staples and minimal prep time. Whether served over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted vegetables, Cranberry Chicken quickly becomes a reliable family favorite that feels elegant without requiring complicated techniques.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers a rich combination of sweet and savory flavors with minimal effort. The sauce caramelizes slightly as it bakes, coating the chicken in a glossy, flavorful glaze. It is ideal for busy evenings yet impressive enough for guests. The ingredients are easy to find, and the preparation requires very little hands-on time. Additionally, the dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it adaptable to different preferences and occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe because they cook evenly and absorb the cranberry sauce beautifully. You may also substitute chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, which tends to be juicier and more forgiving during baking.
Cranberry sauce
Whole berry cranberry sauce adds both sweetness and texture. The slight tartness balances the richness of the chicken. I once used homemade cranberry sauce, and the flavor was even more vibrant.
French onion soup mix
This adds depth and a savory note that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. It provides seasoning without the need for multiple individual spices.
Olive oil
A small amount of olive oil helps keep the chicken moist during baking and adds subtle richness.
Garlic powder
Garlic powder delivers a gentle aromatic background without overpowering the cranberry flavor.
Black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds mild heat and rounds out the sweetness of the sauce.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with garlic powder and black pepper. Arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the cranberry sauce and French onion soup mix. Stir until well blended. If you prefer a slightly thinner sauce, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or orange juice.
Pour the cranberry mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. This ensures that the flavors infuse the meat as it bakes.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). During baking, the sauce will thicken and develop a glossy finish.
Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Spoon the sauce from the dish over each piece for maximum flavor.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filli
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people generously. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while baking time ranges from 30 to 35 minutes, making the total time about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Storage/reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a covered baking dish and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring the sauce occasionally to maintain moisture.
Variations and Customizations
If you enjoy a bit of citrus brightness, add freshly squeezed orange juice or orange zest to the cranberry mixture. This enhances the tart notes and makes the dish feel even more vibrant.
For a slightly spicy variation, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes. The gentle heat contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cranberries.
You can also incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an earthy depth. Sprinkle chopped herbs over the chicken before baking for a more aromatic profile.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream before pouring it over the chicken. This creates a richer, more indulgent finish.
For a slow cooker version, place all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Protein | 36 g |
| Carbs | 22 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
This dish is high in protein and relatively moderate in fat. To reduce sodium, choose a low-sodium soup mix and cranberry sauce. It is naturally gluten-free if you verify that your soup mix contains no added gluten ingredients.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do Not Overcook
Use a meat thermometer to prevent dry chicken and remove it promptly at 165°F.
Balance the Sweetness
If your cranberry sauce is very sweet, add a small splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
Let It Rest
Allowing the chicken to rest before serving helps retain juices and improves texture.
Use Quality Cranberry Sauce
A whole berry version provides better texture and visual appeal.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it completely before baking to ensure even cooking and proper sauce consistency.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish several hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Can I substitute chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs work well and may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze cooked Cranberry Chicken for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
What sides pair well with Cranberry Chicken?
Rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad complement the flavors beautifully.
How do I thicken the sauce further?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes after baking or stir in a small cornstarch slurry.
Conclusion
Cranberry Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that combines sweet and savory elements into a satisfying meal. With minimal preparation and versatile serving options, it is a reliable recipe for both everyday dinners and festive gatherings. Once you try it, you may find it becoming a regular addition to your meal rotation.
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