Description
Tangy cranberry-orange chicken bites glazed to golden perfection—juicy, festive, and perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or quick weeknight treats.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Cranberry-Orange Sauce
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tsp orange zest
- 2 tbsp honey
For Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breast pieces dry, then sprinkle evenly with salt and black pepper. This helps to build a base flavor and tenderize the meat before cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, arranging them in a single layer. Sauté for 7-9 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. (Internal temperature should reach 165°F.)
- Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, whisk together the cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, and honey in a mixing bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Simmer with Sauce: Lower the heat to low. Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat all pieces, then let simmer for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and infuse the chicken with vibrant flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the chicken bites to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, and serve warm as appetizers or alongside your favorite side.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh orange zest for a burst of citrus flavor.
- You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Taste and adjust the honey if you prefer a sweeter or tarter sauce.
- This dish works well served over rice, couscous, or as part of a holiday spread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: about 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg