Holiday Cranberry Chicken

If you’re looking for a festive dinner that’s both easy and elegant, Holiday Cranberry Chicken is the perfect choice.
This dish combines juicy chicken breasts baked in a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze, creating a comforting meal that captures the spirit of the season.

With its deep red sauce, aromatic herbs, and irresistible flavor balance, this cranberry chicken is sure to impress at Christmas dinner, Thanksgiving gatherings, or any cozy winter night.

🍗 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🎄 Festive & Beautiful: The cranberry glaze gives a stunning holiday color.
🍯 Sweet & Savory Harmony: The mix of cranberries, honey, and Dijon mustard creates a perfect balance.
🕒 Quick to Make: Ready in under 40 minutes!
🍽️ Versatile: Works beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

🧂 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cranberry Sauce:

1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
¼ cup orange juice
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon thyme
¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a warm holiday note)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Holiday Cranberry Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
This step helps lock in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, thyme, and cinnamon.
The sauce should be smooth, glossy, and slightly tangy-sweet.

Step 4: Bake

Place the seared chicken in the baking dish and pour the cranberry glaze evenly on top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Spoon the extra cranberry glaze from the pan over each piece.
Garnish with fresh rosemary or orange zest for a festive touch.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve your Holiday Cranberry Chicken with:

🥔 Creamy mashed potatoes
🥦 Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans
🍚 Fluffy white rice or wild rice blend
🥖 Warm dinner rolls for soaking up that cranberry glaze

For a full holiday spread, pair it with stuffing, cranberry relish, or a light winter salad.

💡 Tips for Success

Don’t overbake! Use a meat thermometer to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Use homemade cranberry sauce for richer flavor (or canned for convenience).
Add orange zest or a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth.
Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce a day before for quick assembly.

🎄 Why This Recipe Is Perfect for the Holidays

This Holiday Cranberry Chicken brings together all the comforting, nostalgic flavors of the season — sweet cranberries, citrus notes, and herbs.
It’s elegant enough for Christmas dinner but simple enough for weeknight cooking.

The combination of flavors is festive without being overpowering, making it a go-to dish for cozy gatherings or family feasts.

❤️ Final Thoughts

The Holiday Cranberry Chicken is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration on a plate.
It’s quick, colorful, and full of flavor, making every bite taste like the holidays. Whether you serve it at a big family gathering or a quiet dinner for two, it’s guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite year after year.