Description

Embrace the comforting flavors of the holiday season with this Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the zesty brightness of oranges, creating a harmonious blend that warms the soul. Perfect for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional holiday fare, bringing a burst of flavor to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup orange juice
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• Zest of one orange

Preparation Method

Prepare the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
Make the Sauce:

In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well mixed.
Combine in Slow Cooker:

Pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
Cook:

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Thicken the Sauce:

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the breasts from the slow cooker and set them aside, keeping them warm.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker, then cover and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Finish and Serve:

Return the chicken breasts to the slow cooker, coating them with the thickened sauce.
Sprinkle the orange zest over the top for a fresh burst of citrus flavor.
Serve the chicken warm, spooning additional sauce over each serving.

Tips and Conclusion

For an added layer of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of balsamic vinegar into the sauce mixture before cooking. The vinegar adds a subtle depth and enhances the overall complexity of the dish. Additionally, garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or rosemary can provide a vibrant contrast to the rich flavors.
This Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Chicken is a delightful addition to any holiday menu, offering a balance of sweet and savory flavors that are both comforting and refreshing. The ease of preparation allows you to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort, making it ideal for both festive occasions and everyday dinners. Pair this dish with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up the delicious sauce, and consider adding a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete meal. Embrace the warmth and joy of the season with this flavorful and soul-warming recipe.