Cranberry Orange Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to a symphony of flavors that delight the senses and warm the soul. Imagine tender, succulent chicken bathed in a vibrant, glossy sauce, where the tartness of cranberries perfectly harmonizes with the bright zest of fresh oranges and a touch of savory sweetness. This exquisite dish, while feeling incredibly sophisticated, boasts a surprisingly accessible preparation, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and grand holiday feasts.
A Celebration of Seasonal Flavors
While the precise culinary lineage of this specific combination might be a modern marvel, the pairing of cranberries and oranges has long been a staple in festive traditions, especially during autumn and winter. It harks back to eras when cooks would ingeniously blend seasonal produce to create memorable dishes, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This Cranberry Orange Chicken takes those beloved seasonal notes and elevates them into a main course that’s both comforting and undeniably elegant.
I find that people absolutely adore this dish for its incredible balance. The chicken emerges incredibly tender, absorbing the rich, complex flavors of the sauce. It’s the kind of meal that consistently earns rave reviews, offering a gourmet experience without requiring hours in the kitchen. Its vibrant color and irresistible aroma are just the beginning of why it has become such a beloved staple in homes seeking a flavorful, festive, and fuss-free centerpiece.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2-2.5 lbs total). While boneless, skinless breasts can be used, I find that thighs offer superior flavor and moisture, especially when baked. The skin crisps up beautifully and adds a rich dimension to our Cranberry Orange Chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for searing if needed. Good quality extra virgin olive oil works wonderfully here.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Thyme pairs incredibly well with both chicken and citrus.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder.
- For the Zesty Cranberry Orange Sauce:
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; they’ll cook down beautifully in the sauce.
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 2-3 large oranges). Fresh juice is non-negotiable for that vibrant, bright flavor that truly elevates this Cranberry Orange Chicken.
- Zest of 1 large orange. Make sure to only get the orange part, avoiding the bitter white pith. This zest is where a significant portion of that amazing citrus aroma resides.
- ½ cup granulated sugar, or to taste. You might adjust this depending on the tartness of your cranberries and your personal preference.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed. This adds a lovely depth and a hint of molasses flavor.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. This brightens the sauce and cuts through the sweetness, adding a crucial acidic balance.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Don’t worry, it won’t make your sauce taste like mustard! It acts as an emulsifier and adds a subtle, savory complexity that rounds out the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated. Fresh ginger provides a warm, spicy note that complements the cranberries and orange perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional, but highly recommended for a truly festive flavor profile).
- ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick).
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening the sauce, if desired).
- For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh orange slices or segments.
- Fresh cranberries.
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs, chopped.
Preparing the Zesty Cranberry Orange Sauce
The heart of our amazing Cranberry Orange Chicken lies in its vibrant, sweet-tart sauce. Preparing this sauce first allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures it’s ready to envelop our chicken as it bakes. I always recommend making it ahead of time if you can, as it only gets better with a little time to sit.
- Zest and Juice Your Oranges: First things first, grab your oranges. Using a microplane or a fine grater, carefully zest one large orange. You want only the bright orange peel, avoiding the white pith underneath, which can be bitter. Once zested, cut the oranges in half and squeeze out about 1 cup of fresh juice. This fresh juice is absolutely paramount for the bright, authentic orange flavor we’re aiming for in our Cranberry Orange Chicken. Store-bought juice just won’t give you the same vibrant result.
- Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine your fresh or frozen cranberries, the freshly squeezed orange juice, the orange zest, granulated sugar, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, grated fresh ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves (if using), and salt. If you like a little warmth, now is also the time to add that pinch of red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir with a whisk or a wooden spoon to ensure the sugars start dissolving and all the spices are incorporated.
- Simmer and Thicken the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. As it heats up, you’ll notice the cranberries starting to “pop” – this is exactly what we want! Reduce the heat to low, and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, the cranberries will soften further, releasing their juices, and the sauce will begin to thicken naturally. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. The goal here is a luscious, syrupy consistency that will coat our chicken beautifully. If you find your sauce isn’t thickening enough to your liking after 15 minutes, you can introduce a cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture slowly into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Remember, the sauce will thicken a bit more as it cools.
- Taste and Adjust: This is a crucial step! Carefully taste the sauce. Is it sweet enough? Tart enough? Does it need more spice? This is your chance to make it perfect for your palate. If it’s too tart, add a little more granulated sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your preferred balance. If it’s too sweet, a tiny splash more of apple cider vinegar or a bit more orange juice can help. If you feel it needs more depth, a tiny pinch more of cinnamon or cloves can make a difference. Once you’re happy with the flavor, remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside. It’s now ready to be united with our chicken, creating the magic of Cranberry Orange Chicken.
Preparing the Chicken for Optimal Flavor
Getting your chicken ready is key to achieving that perfectly moist interior and deliciously crisp exterior for our Cranberry Orange Chicken. A little attention to detail here goes a long way in developing deep flavors.
- Preheat and Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, choose an oven-safe skillet (like a cast-iron pan) or a baking dish large enough to hold all the chicken thighs in a single layer without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, which means less crispy skin. If using a baking dish, you might want to line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup, though I usually prefer the direct contact with the pan for better browning.
- Pat the Chicken Dry: This step is non-negotiable for crispy skin! Remove the chicken thighs from their packaging and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. Using more paper towels, thoroughly pat each piece of chicken dry, especially the skin. Any moisture on the skin will prevent it from becoming golden and crispy in the oven. This simple act is one of the biggest secrets to truly fantastic roasted chicken, and it’s especially important for our Cranberry Orange Chicken where that crispy skin provides a wonderful textural contrast to the luscious sauce.
- Season the Chicken Generously: In a small bowl, combine the sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture generously over all sides of each chicken thigh. Make sure to get it into any nooks and crannies. If using bone-in, skin-on thighs, you can even gently lift the skin slightly to rub some seasoning directly onto the meat underneath – this truly infuses every bite with flavor. Rub the seasoning in gently with your hands, ensuring an even coating.
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Optional Searing for Extra Crispy Skin: While not strictly mandatory, searing the chicken thighs on the stovetop before baking adds an incredible depth of flavor and ensures exceptionally crispy skin. If you’re using an oven-safe skillet, you can do this directly in your baking vessel, minimizing cleanup.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Ensure they are not overcrowded. If necessary, sear in batches.
- Sear for about 5-7 minutes, undisturbed, until the skin is deeply golden brown and beautifully crisp. Don’t rush this step!
- Flip the chicken thighs over and sear for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. This helps to lock in juices and get a little color on the underside of the meat.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. If you’re using a separate baking dish, transfer the seared chicken to it, skin-side up.
If you choose to skip the searing step, that’s perfectly fine! Your Cranberry Orange Chicken will still be delicious. Simply arrange the seasoned, unseared chicken thighs skin-side up in your prepared baking dish.
Baking the Cranberry Orange Chicken to Perfection
Now comes the moment to bring everything together, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook beautifully, absorbing all the aromatic goodness of the cranberry orange sauce. This phase is where our Cranberry Orange Chicken truly comes to life.
- Coat the Chicken with Cranberry Orange Sauce: With the chicken either seared in your oven-safe skillet or arranged in your baking dish, it’s time to introduce our star sauce. Spoon a generous amount of the prepared cranberry orange sauce over each chicken thigh. Make sure to coat the skin thoroughly. You want to save some of the sauce for basting during the baking process and for serving later, so don’t use it all up now. I usually reserve about a third of the sauce at this stage. The vibrant color and aroma are already telling you this Cranberry Orange Chicken is going to be something special!
- Initial Bake: Place the skillet or baking dish with the sauced chicken into your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 25 minutes. During this initial baking period, the chicken will begin to cook through, and the flavors of the sauce will start to permeate the meat. The high heat helps to ensure the skin remains crispy while the sauce starts to caramelize around the edges.
- Reduce Heat and Baste: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven. The sauce will be bubbling, and the chicken will have started to firm up. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Now, take some of the reserved cranberry orange sauce and spoon it generously over the chicken thighs. You can also use the pan drippings and sauce already in the dish to baste the chicken. This step is crucial for keeping the chicken moist and building layers of flavor with the luscious cranberry orange glaze. Return the dish to the oven.
- Continue Baking and Basting: Continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. I like to baste the chicken every 10-15 minutes during this stage. Each time you baste, you’re adding more of that wonderful flavor, ensuring the skin gets beautifully glazed and the chicken stays incredibly juicy. The sauce will also begin to thicken and become even more rich and glistening as it reduces around the chicken. Keep an eye on the sauce; if it seems to be reducing too quickly or getting too dark, you can add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water to the pan.
- Achieving Golden Perfection (Optional Broiler Finish): If, after the chicken is cooked through, the skin isn’t as crispy or as golden brown as you’d like, you can briefly place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch it very carefully during this time, as the sugar in the sauce can burn quickly! This final touch adds a beautiful char and extra crispness that makes our Cranberry Orange Chicken truly irresistible.
- Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked to perfection and beautifully glazed, remove the dish from the oven. This next step is extremely important for juicy chicken: tent the dish loosely with aluminum foil and let the Cranberry Orange Chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and succulent. If you cut into the chicken immediately, all those delicious juices will run out, leaving you with drier meat.
Finishing Touches and Serving Your Cranberry Orange Chicken
You’ve done it! Your kitchen is filled with the incredible aroma of Cranberry Orange Chicken, and now it’s time for the grand finale. These last steps ensure every element of the dish is perfect for serving.
- Prepare the Remaining Pan Sauce: While the chicken is resting, you can enhance the pan sauce. If you have any reserved cranberry orange sauce, pour it into the baking dish or skillet with the pan drippings. Stir it all together, gently scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. If the sauce in the pan seems too thin, you can transfer it to a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer on the stovetop. If you want it thicker, you can create another cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons cold water) and whisk it into the simmering sauce, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste the sauce again and adjust seasonings if needed. Sometimes, a tiny squeeze of fresh orange juice or a pinch of salt can brighten it up even more. This rich, flavorful sauce is essential for pouring generously over your finished Cranberry Orange Chicken.
- Garnish for Visual Appeal: Presentation always enhances the dining experience! Once the chicken has rested, transfer the Cranberry Orange Chicken pieces to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining pan sauce over and around the chicken. For a beautiful finish, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves. The green herbs provide a lovely contrast to the vibrant orange and red hues of the dish. You can also arrange a few fresh orange slices or segments, and a scattering of fresh cranberries around the platter. This makes for a visually stunning Cranberry Orange Chicken that’s perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight meal to a festive dinner party.
- Serving Suggestions: This versatile Cranberry Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I love serving it with fluffy wild rice or quinoa, which soak up the delicious sauce beautifully. Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes make a fantastic autumnal complement. For something lighter, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed green beans tossed with a little butter and lemon zest would be perfect. The combination of savory chicken, sweet-tart cranberries, and bright orange notes makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Prepare yourself for compliments! Enjoy every succulent, flavorful bite of your homemade Cranberry Orange Chicken.
Conclusion:
Well, my friends, we’ve reached the end of our culinary journey for today, but truly, it’s just the beginning of your delicious adventure! If there’s one recipe I genuinely hope you welcome into your kitchen, it’s this one. I know I’ve said it before, but allow me to reiterate why this particular dish, our delightful Cranberry Orange Chicken, isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen. It marries the vibrant, zesty punch of fresh orange with the subtle, sweet-tart whisper of cranberries, all harmoniously coating tender, savory chicken. The result? A symphony of flavors that manages to be both bright and comforting, elegant and approachable.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try:
First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. You get that initial burst of citrus that awakens your palate, followed by the comforting sweetness of the cranberries, and then the savory notes of the perfectly cooked chicken tie it all together. It’s a beautifully balanced profile that avoids being overly sweet or too tart. Secondly, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an absolute lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you crave something special without the fuss. Imagine impressing your family or even unexpected guests with a dish that looks like it took hours of intricate work, when in reality, it’s quite straightforward. I’ve personally found it to be a fantastic go-to for dinner parties because it’s a crowd-pleaser and offers something a little different from the usual fare. The gorgeous, glistening glaze not only tastes incredible but also adds a visually stunning appeal to your dinner table, making every meal feel like a celebration.
Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations:
Now, let’s talk about how to elevate your Cranberry Orange Chicken even further! For serving, I adore pairing this dish with a fluffy bed of wild rice or quinoa; their nutty textures provide a wonderful contrast to the tender chicken and its glossy sauce. Roasted asparagus or tender-crisp green beans, perhaps lightly tossed with a sprinkle of toasted almonds, would offer a fresh, vibrant green counterpoint. If you’re leaning towards a heartier side, creamy mashed potatoes or even a sweet potato mash would beautifully soak up every last drop of that delectable sauce. For a lighter touch, a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette would cut through the richness and cleanse the palate beautifully.
But don’t stop there – feel free to get creative with variations! If you prefer chicken thighs over breasts, they work wonderfully here, often retaining even more moisture and flavor. For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce during cooking can introduce a delightful warmth without overpowering the primary flavors. You could also experiment with different herbs; a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme added to the pan while the chicken cooks would infuse it with an aromatic depth. To make it a true one-pan wonder, consider roasting some root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or even some small chunks of butternut squash alongside your chicken. They’ll absorb the glorious flavors of the glaze as they cook, making cleanup a breeze and adding even more nutritional value. For those feeling adventurous, a splash of balsamic vinegar or a hint of ginger could introduce another layer of complexity to the sauce. And don’t forget about leftovers! Shredded Cranberry Orange Chicken makes for an incredible sandwich filling, a flavorful topping for a fresh salad, or even a delicious addition to a quick quesadilla.
Your Turn! Share Your Experience:
So, there you have it. My heartfelt recommendation for a dish that truly delivers on flavor, elegance, and ease. I genuinely believe that once you try this recipe, it will earn a coveted spot in your regular rotation. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to create something truly delicious and memorable in your own kitchen. I’m so excited for you to experience the magic of this Cranberry Orange Chicken firsthand. Please, please, please don’t hesitate to give it a try! And when you do, I would absolutely love to hear all about your experience. Did you add your own unique twist? What did you serve it with? How did your family and friends react? Share your thoughts, your successes, and even your culinary experiments in the comments below or on social media! Your insights and feedback are incredibly valuable to me and to our wonderful community of home cooks. Happy cooking, everyone!
Easy Cranberry Orange Chicken: Sweet & Savory Dinner
Cranberry Orange Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to a symphony of flavors that delight the senses and warm the soul. Imagine tender, succulent chicken bathed in a vibrant, glossy sauce, where the tartness of cranberries perfectly harmonizes with the bright zest of fresh oranges and a touch of savory sweetness. This exquisite dish, while feeling incredibly sophisticated, boasts a surprisingly accessible preparation, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and grand holiday feasts.
Ingredients
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4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (2-2.5 lbs)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp sea salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp garlic powder
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¼ tsp onion powder
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12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
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1 cup fresh orange juice
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Zest of 1 large orange
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 tbsp packed brown sugar
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2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tsp grated fresh ginger
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp ground cloves (optional)
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¼ tsp salt
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Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 tbsp cornstarch
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2 tbsp cold water (for slurry)
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Fresh orange slices/segments (optional, for garnish)
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Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
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Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Step 1
Prepare Cranberry Orange Sauce: Zest 1 large orange, then juice oranges to get 1 cup fresh orange juice. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, granulated sugar, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, grated fresh ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves (optional), salt, and red pepper flakes (optional). Stir well. -
Step 2
Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cranberries pop and sauce thickens naturally. If desired, whisk 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to create a slurry, then slowly stir into the simmering sauce and cook for another 1-2 minutes until desired thickness. Taste and adjust sweetness/tartness as needed. Remove from heat and set aside, reserving about 1/3 of the sauce for basting and serving. -
Step 3
Prepare Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Pat chicken thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine sea salt, black pepper, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season chicken generously on all sides, ensuring an even coating (gently lift skin to season meat underneath). -
Step 4
Optional Searing: For extra crispy skin, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until deep golden brown and crisp. Flip and sear for another 2-3 minutes. If using a separate baking dish, transfer seared chicken to it, skin-side up. -
Step 5
Initial Bake: Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up in the prepared dish. Spoon about 2/3 of the prepared cranberry orange sauce over each chicken thigh, coating the skin thoroughly. Place in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 25 minutes. -
Step 6
Continue Baking & Basting: After 25 minutes, reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Carefully remove the dish, spoon some of the reserved cranberry orange sauce and pan drippings generously over the chicken thighs. Return to the oven and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, basting every 10-15 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be rich and glistening. -
Step 7
Optional Broiler Finish & Rest: If desired, for extra crispy and golden skin, briefly place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching very carefully to prevent burning. Once cooked, remove from oven, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. -
Step 8
Serve: While chicken rests, prepare the pan sauce. Stir any remaining reserved sauce into the baking dish with pan drippings, scraping up any flavorful browned bits. If desired, transfer to a small saucepan and simmer to thicken further with a cornstarch slurry (if needed). Taste and adjust seasonings. Transfer chicken to a serving platter, drizzle generously with the pan sauce, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley/thyme, orange slices, and fresh cranberries. Serve hot with desired sides.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.