★ COUNTRY-STYLE CRANBERRY CHICKEN ★

✦ WHAT YOU'LL NEED

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 6 oz each

• 1 can (14 oz) whole-berry cranberry sauce

• ½ cup French dressing or Catalina-style dressing

• 1 packet (about 1 oz) dry onion soup mix

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, optional for browning

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice, optional

• Fresh parsley or orange zest, for garnish

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→ LET'S MAKE IT!

① PREHEAT THE OVEN

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken in a single layer.

② PREPARE THE CRANBERRY SAUCE

In a bowl, stir together the cranberry sauce, French dressing, dry onion soup mix, garlic powder, black pepper, and orange juice if using.

Mix until everything is evenly combined.

③ PREPARE THE CHICKEN

Pat the chicken breasts dry. If desired, lightly brown them in a skillet with olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side to add extra flavor.

Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.

④ ADD THAT BEAUTIFUL GLAZE

Pour the cranberry mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.

⑤ BAKE UNTIL TENDER

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for approximately 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Cook until the thickest part of each piece reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.

⑥ LET IT REST AND SERVE

Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. Spoon the glossy cranberry sauce over the top, then finish with fresh parsley or a little orange zest.

Serve warm and enjoy every sweet-and-savory bite!

✧ MAKE IT YOUR OWN

» Citrus Brightness: Add orange zest for a fresh, fragrant finish.

» Extra Savory: Add sliced onions or sautéed mushrooms to the baking dish.

» Herb-Infused: Add a little fresh rosemary or thyme.

» Less Sweet: Choose a cranberry sauce with less added sugar and adjust the dressing to taste.

» Family-Style Feast: Serve alongside mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted carrots.

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★ THE SECRET TO PERFECT CRANBERRY CHICKEN

Don't overcook the chicken! Chicken breasts vary in thickness, so start checking the temperature early. Once the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C), the chicken is ready.

For extra flavor, spoon some of the sauce over the chicken once or twice during baking. The cranberry mixture becomes a delicious glaze as it cooks.

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♥ A LITTLE COUNTRY COMFORT

There's something special about a meal that brings sweet, tangy, and savory flavors together in one simple dish.

This cranberry chicken is colorful enough for a holiday-inspired dinner and easy enough for an ordinary weeknight. Pair it with warm rolls and your favorite vegetables, and you've got a meal that feels both comforting and memorable.