Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken

Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken is a dish that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. With just a few pantry staples, this slow cooker meal transforms simple chicken into something extraordinary. The tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken, making it a standout choice for both weeknight dinners and festive occasions. If you’re craving comfort food that’s both easy and elegant, this recipe hits the mark.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from ingredients to step-by-step instructions—so you can master this seasonal favorite and enjoy its savory-sweet goodness all year round.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken

To make this flavorful and comforting dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 to 2.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 cup French dressing (or Catalina)
• 1 packet (1 oz) dry onion soup mix
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

• Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
• Orange zest for a hint of citrus
• A splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth

Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which not only enhance flavor but also offer several health benefits according to Healthline’s guide on cranberries.

These simple ingredients come together effortlessly in the crockpot to create a dish with deep, bold flavor. If you love easy prep like in our 3-ingredient creamy mushroom crockpot chicken or want the same no-fuss dinner approach seen in delicious chicken veggie casserole, this cranberry glazed chicken recipe will feel just as effortless and satisfying.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken

Follow these easy instructions to get perfectly glazed, juicy chicken every time:

1. Prep the Chicken: Trim excess fat from the chicken. Pat dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. You can use frozen chicken too, just like in our easy frozen chicken in a crock pot, but fresh yields slightly better texture.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, stir together the cranberry sauce, French dressing, and dry onion soup mix until smooth.
3. Layer in the Crockpot: Place the chicken in the crockpot in a single layer. Pour the sauce mixture over the top, making sure all pieces are well coated.
4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The chicken should be fork-tender and easily shredded if desired.
5. Serve: Plate whole or shredded over rice, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa. Spoon extra sauce over the top for that sticky, sweet finish.

This dish is just as easy as our chicken pasta crockpot recipe and makes a great freezer-friendly meal for busy weeks.

Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken

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• Author: Sophia Lane
• Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Sweet and savory slow-cooked cranberry glazed chicken made with just a few pantry staples. A comforting, family-friendly dinner.

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Ingredients

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For best results and food safety, always follow recommended slow cooking temperatures, as advised by the FDA’s food safety tips for slow cookers.

Perfect for Holidays, Weeknights, and Meal Prep

This dish is ideal for those busy weeks when you need something hearty, flavorful, and low-maintenance. Whether you’re meal prepping for the workweek or feeding a crowd at a holiday gathering, it fits the occasion. The cranberry glaze brings festive flair without any fuss, making it a go-to for Thanksgiving leftovers or casual Sunday dinners.

Batch cooking is also easy—just double the recipe in a larger slow cooker. Portion and store for stress-free dinners all week long. Pair it with veggie sides like roasted carrots or simple casseroles such as our delicious chicken veggie casserole for a complete meal.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal that tastes like it took hours to make, Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken checks all the boxes: simple, flavorful, and repeat-worthy.

FAQs About Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken

1- Do chicken and cranberry go together?
Yes, the tartness of cranberries complements the savory flavor of chicken beautifully.

2- Is it better to cook chicken on high or low in a crockpot?
Low is better—it keeps the chicken juicy and allows flavors to develop fully.

3- How do you keep chicken moist in a crockpot?
Use a sauce or liquid like cranberry glaze, and avoid overcooking.

4- Are cranberries good for chicken?
Definitely. They add flavor, color, and natural antioxidants to the dish.

Conclusion

Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken is more than just an easy dinner—it’s a recipe that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of festive comfort to your table. With minimal prep and a handful of ingredients, you get a dish that’s sweet, savory, and slow-cooked to perfection. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a holiday gathering, this recipe fits the bill. Try it once, and it might just become a new seasonal favorite in your kitchen.