slow cooker chicken cranberry recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
slow cooker chicken cranberry recipe
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The Best slow cooker chicken cranberry recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – slow cooker chicken cranberry. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures that everyone loves.

I first discovered this recipe when I was going through a busy phase of life, and it quickly became my go-to option for weeknight dinners. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some patience while the slow cooker does its magic.

My kids adore the tender chicken and sweet cranberries, and I appreciate how healthy this meal is, with lean protein from the chicken and antioxidants from the berries. It’s also a great option for special occasions, like holidays or potlucks, as it’s easy to serve in large quantities.

Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe to suit our tastes, but the basic principle remains the same – simply layering chicken, cranberries, and spices in the slow cooker for a delicious meal that’s ready when we need it. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a hearty meal to warm your family up on a chilly day, slow cooker chicken cranberry is sure to become a new favorite.

Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken

Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken

4.8 from 1595 votes

Tender chicken breasts simmered in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. This easy slow cooker meal is perfect for a cozy dinner with minimal effort.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 10 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cranberry Sauce

1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, then transfer to the slow cooker.
4In a medium bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and dried thyme until smooth.
5Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring each piece is coated.
6Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7The sauce will thicken slightly as it cooks.
8Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker using tongs and let it rest for 5 minutes.
9Spoon the cranberry sauce over the chicken before serving for extra flavor.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
Large skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 28g🥩Protein: 38g

📝Notes

For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Serve with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken Works

This slow cooker chicken cranberry recipe has become a staple in our household over the years due to its ease of preparation and delicious flavors.

One of my favorite aspects is how well it reheats – whether you’re serving it immediately after cooking or storing leftovers for later meals.

The dish also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months when stored properly in an airtight container or freezer bag.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken

Q: What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

The best type of chicken to use in this recipe is boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use a combination of both if you prefer.

Q: Can I use fresh or frozen cranberries?

Both fresh and frozen cranberries work well in this recipe. If using frozen cranberries, make sure to thaw them before adding them to the slow cooker.

Q: How long does it take to cook the chicken?

The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces. As a general rule, boneless chicken breasts will take around 6-8 hours on low heat, while boneless thighs will take around 8-10 hours.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a regular pot?

No, this recipe is specifically designed for a slow cooker. However, you can make adjustments to cook it on the stovetop or in an oven-safe dish if you don’t have access to a slow cooker.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with other spices or herbs?

Yes! This recipe is very versatile, and you can adjust the spice levels or add your favorite herbs to suit your taste preferences. Some ideas include adding cumin for a Mexican twist or thyme for an Italian flavor profile.

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