Easy Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken (Sweet & Savory High-Protein Dinner)


 

The essentials:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

  • 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce

  • 1 packet dry onion soup mix

  • ½ cup Russian or Catalina dressing

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Substitution notes:
No cranberry sauce? Use a combination of cranberry sauce and orange marmalade. No onion soup mix? Use 1 tablespoon onion powder and 1 teaspoon garlic powder.

Let's Make Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, onion soup mix, and dressing.

Step 4: Pour Over the Chicken

Pour the sauce over the chicken.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

If desired, thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the chicken and sauce over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Chicken

Use chicken thighs. They're more flavorful and tender.

Don't overcook. Chicken can become dry.

Thicken the sauce. It makes it extra satisfying.

Add fresh herbs. Thyme or rosemary.

Serve with a side. Rice, potatoes, or vegetables.

Variations to Make It Your Own

With Orange: Add orange zest and juice.

With Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary.

With Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts.

With Vegetables: Add carrots or onions.

With Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves.

What to Serve With Cranberry Chicken

  • Rice

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Noodles

  • Roasted vegetables

  • A simple green salad

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Freezer: This dish freezes well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes, but they can become dry.

Can I use a different type of cranberry sauce?
Yes, whole berry is best.

Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes, simmer for 30-40 minutes.

Can I add more vegetables?
Yes.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes.

A Final Thought

When I make this cranberry chicken, I feel like I'm making something special. It's the perfect combination of sweet and savory.

Have you ever made cranberry chicken? What's your favorite way to serve it? Share your tips in the comments. 🍗🍒