There is something so delightfully comforting about this Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe that it quickly becomes a favorite in any household. Picture tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a tangy yet sweet cranberry glaze, balanced perfectly with the savory notes of French dressing and onion soup mix. This dish captures the essence of cozy dinners with a burst of color and flavor that makes every bite exciting. Whether you’re aiming for an easy weeknight meal or a festive gathering entree, this Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe checks all the boxes with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe lies in the simplicity and accessibility of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the luscious cranberry sauce that adds a fruity tang, to the savory onion soup mix that deepens the flavor profile. Combining pantry staples with fresh chicken creates an irresistible harmony in the final dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): Choose fresh chicken for tender, juicy results.
- 1 (14 oz) can whole cranberry sauce: Adds natural sweetness and a festive red hue.
- 1 (8 oz) bottle French or Catalina dressing: Brings tanginess and complements the cranberries perfectly.
- 1 packet onion soup mix: Offers a savory depth to balance the sweet elements.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional): Adds a subtle kick and complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): Great for browning chicken and adding extra richness.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Provides a fresh, herbal finish and vibrant color.
How to Make Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly even bake when your cranberry chicken goes into the oven. While the oven warms, you can prep your chicken, seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper for that essential foundation of flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Browning the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side not only locks in juices but also creates a beautiful golden crust that adds a depth of flavor that makes this Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe shine.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the whole cranberry sauce, French or Catalina dressing, onion soup mix, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Stir everything well until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This vibrant sauce will coat the chicken, infusing it with a tantalizing balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Step 4: Assemble
Place the browned chicken (or raw if you skipped browning) in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cranberry sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure every piece is fully covered in that luscious sauce that defines this Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your dish with foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil to allow the sauce to bubble and slightly thicken as the chicken finishes cooking. Bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The aromas at this point will have your kitchen smelling like a warm hug.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and bright herbal notes. Your Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe is now ready to bring joy to your dinner table.
How to Serve Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the perfect garnish to complement this dish. Its vibrant green color contrasts beautifully with the red cranberry sauce and adds a fresh, mildly peppery flavor that brightens up each bite. You can also try a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans for added crunch and a hint of warmth.
Side Dishes
This Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice that soaks up the flavorful sauce. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans provide a lovely texture contrast and complementary earthiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the chicken on a bed of wild rice mixed with toasted pecans and dried cranberries. Drizzle a little extra cranberry sauce over the top and garnish with sliced green onions or microgreens for a sophisticated look that will impress guests without the extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cranberry chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the sauce and chicken are cooled to room temperature before sealing to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the dish’s wonderful texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave on medium power in short intervals until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth before reheating helps keep the chicken moist and saucy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe, offering a bit more fat and flavor, which some people prefer for juicier results.
Is the Dijon mustard necessary?
The Dijon mustard is optional but recommended for an extra layer of tangy depth. If you don’t have it on hand, the dish will still be delicious without it.
What other dressings can I use?
French or Catalina dressing are best due to their tangy and sweet profiles, but you could experiment with other fruity vinaigrettes or even a zesty Italian dressing for a different twist.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken and sauce in the baking dish a few hours before baking, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. This makes mealtime even easier!
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the chicken should be white and opaque throughout with clear juices.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings warmth and happiness with every bite. Its effortless preparation and wonderful blend of flavors make it a go-to recipe for busy nights or special occasions alike. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find a new favorite to share again and again.
Print
Cranberry Chicken Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cranberry Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of tangy cranberry sauce and savory flavors, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful dish. The chicken is first browned for extra depth, then baked in a sweet and tangy cranberry dressing mixture, making it an ideal main course for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)
Sauce
- 1 (14 oz) can whole cranberry sauce
- 1 (8 oz) bottle French or Catalina dressing
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the whole cranberry sauce, French or Catalina dressing, onion soup mix, and Dijon mustard if using. Stir everything together until well blended.
- Assemble Dish: Place the browned chicken in a 9×13-inch baking dish. If you chose not to brown the chicken, place raw chicken directly in the dish. Pour the cranberry sauce mixture evenly over the chicken to coat it thoroughly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow the chicken to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Pair the cranberry chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Optional browning of the chicken adds extra flavor and texture but can be skipped to save time.
- Dijon mustard is optional but adds a nice tang and depth to the sauce.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Adjust salt accordingly since the onion soup mix can be salty.
