Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker cranberry chicken recipe that’s sweet, tangy, and incredibly tender, this Amish-style classic is about to become your new weeknight favorite. With just 4 simple ingredients, this crockpot cranberry chicken delivers big flavor with almost no prep.
It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker chicken recipe for busy families, cozy fall dinners, or even an easy holiday meal idea.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken:
Only 4 ingredients pantry staples you likely already have
Minimal prep time just layer, mix, and cook
Tender, juicy chicken breasts every time
Sweet and tangy cranberry glaze that doubles as a gravy
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
The slow cooking process allows the cranberry sauce, onion soup mix, and French dressing to create a rich, glossy sauce that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
Ingredients:
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (14-ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
1 (1-ounce) packet dry onion soup mix
1 cup French dressing or Catalina-style dressing
Directions:
Place the raw chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of a 4–6 quart slow cooker.
In a medium bowl, combine:
Jellied cranberry sauce
Dry onion soup mix
French dressing
Stir until mostly smooth (small cranberry pieces are perfectly fine).
Pour the cranberry mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours
Or HIGH for 2½–3½ hours
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fork-tender.
For a thicker cranberry glaze:
Cook uncovered on HIGH for 10–15 minutes
OR
Stir in a slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon cold water) and cook until thickened.
Shred the chicken or serve whole with extra sauce spooned over the top.
What to Serve with Cranberry Chicken
This sweet and tangy slow cooker chicken pairs beautifully with:
Fluffy white rice
Creamy mashed potatoes
Buttered egg noodles
Steamed green beans
Glazed carrots
Warm dinner rolls
The sauce acts like a gravy, soaking perfectly into rice or potatoes.
Recipe Benefits:
Chicken breasts are lean and packed with protein, making this a satisfying and balanced meal.
Using pantry staples keeps this meal affordable and perfect for feeding a family of four.
The cranberry flavor makes it ideal for:
Thanksgiving leftovers twist
Christmas dinner alternative
Cozy autumn weeknight meals
Leftovers reheat beautifully and can be used in:
Cranberry chicken sandwiches
Wraps
Rice bowls
Sliders
Variations & Expert Tips:
Use Chicken Thighs
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay extra moist and are more forgiving in the slow cooker.
Make It Less Sweet
Reduce dressing to ¾ cup
Add 1–2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Add Vegetables
Add sliced onions or baby carrots before pouring the sauce for a complete one-pot meal.
Creamy Version
Stir in 2–4 tablespoons sour cream at the end (off heat) for a creamy cranberry chicken sauce.
Use Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce
It adds texture and a more rustic presentation.
Storage & Reheating:
Store in airtight container up to 4 days
Freeze up to 2 months
Reheat gently to maintain moisture
Final Thoughts
This easy slow cooker cranberry chicken recipe proves that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. With its glossy cranberry glaze and fall-inspired sweetness, it’s the kind of comforting crockpot dinner that gets requested again and again.
