cranberry sauce for chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best cranberry sauce for chicken recipe

I’ve been making this cranberry sauce for chicken recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

I first learned about this recipe from my mother, who got it from her sister. The original recipe calls for fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and orange juice.

Over time, I’ve modified it to suit my family’s tastes by adding a bit more sugar and using frozen cranberries. This sauce is incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can serve it over chicken breasts, thighs, or even as a topping for salads or yogurt parfaits. My kids love it when I serve the chicken with the cranberry sauce spooned over the top.

The sweetness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the chicken. As an added bonus, this sauce is incredibly healthy – the cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins A and C, making it a great choice for families looking to eat healthier meals.

Cranberry Sauce for Chicken

4.6 from 1501 votes

A tangy and sweet cranberry sauce that perfectly complements roasted or grilled chicken. This easy recipe uses fresh or frozen cranberries and a hint of orange for brightness.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 110 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon orange zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cinnamon stick (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or soft berries.
2In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, orange zest, salt, and cinnamon stick if using.
3Stir to combine.
4Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
5Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes.
6The cranberries will pop and the sauce will thicken; you will hear the popping sounds slow down and the sauce will coat the back of a spoon.
7Remove the saucepan from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick.
8For a smoother sauce, use a potato masher or immersion blender to break down the cranberries to your desired consistency.
9Let the sauce cool for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon
Microplane or zester
Measuring cups and spoons
Fine mesh strainer (optional)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 110 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 100mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 24g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For a less sweet version, reduce sugar to 1/2 cup. The sauce also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Cranberry Sauce for Chicken Works

This cranberry sauce for chicken recipe has become a staple in our household – it’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish to serve at your next family gathering, this recipe is sure to please.

The best part? It’s incredibly healthy and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy families on-the-go.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Sauce for Chicken

1. What is the origin of this cranberry sauce for chicken recipe?

This recipe has its roots in traditional American cuisine, where cranberries were often used as a topping for meat dishes during the holidays.

2. How do I store leftover cranberry sauce?

Leftover cranberry sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 6 months.

3. Can I use fresh or frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Both fresh and frozen cranberries work well in this recipe – simply thaw frozen cranberries before using.

4. What are some other ways to use this cranberry sauce besides on chicken?

This sauce is incredibly versatile – try it as a topping for yogurt parfaits, salads, or even as a side dish for pork or beef.

5. Can I adjust the amount of sugar in this recipe to suit my taste?

Yes – feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of sugar or omit it altogether.

Similar Posts