The evening often brings a whirlwind of activity, doesn’t it? After a day of school runs, chores, and sometimes even work, I often find myself staring into the fridge, wondering what magic I can whip up to bring everyone together around the dinner table. My three little ones have very different palates, but there’s one dish that consistently earns rave reviews, a symphony of flavors that brightens even the chilliest evenings: our beloved Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken.
This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug, a burst of seasonal cheer, and surprisingly simple to create. I first stumbled upon the idea when I had a surplus of cranberries after the holidays and some oranges starting to look a little lonely in the fruit bowl. My goal was a dish that tasted fancy but didn’t require hours of prep, something wholesome and utterly delicious.
The result? A perfectly tender chicken coated in a sticky, sweet-tart glaze that makes everyone ask for seconds. This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken became an instant family favorite, a testament to how simple, good food can create lasting memories. I just know you’ll adore making and sharing this vibrant Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
As a mom, I constantly look for recipes that tick all the boxes: easy to make, nourishing, and most importantly, truly delicious. This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken absolutely delivers on all fronts. First, the flavor profile is simply divine – a perfect harmony of sweet cranberries, bright, zesty orange, and savory chicken, all caramelized into an irresistible glaze.
It’s vibrant, fresh, and deeply satisfying without being heavy. You’ll love how quickly this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you still want to serve something special. It looks incredibly impressive, yet the steps are straightforward and completely beginner-friendly.
Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bring seasonal ingredients like cranberries and oranges into your meal rotation in a fresh and exciting way. This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken truly transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary with minimal fuss. It’s also incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from simple rice to roasted vegetables.
Get ready to add this amazing Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken to your regular meal rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this delicious Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken requires a few simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store. Each component plays a crucial role in building the incredible flavors of this dish.
* 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6-8 thighs)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cranberry Orange Glaze:
* 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw if frozen)
* ½ cup fresh orange juice (from 1-2 oranges)
* Zest of 1 orange
* ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon water (if needed for consistency)
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
For Garnish (Optional):
* Fresh parsley, chopped
* Extra orange zest
Substitutions & Variations
One of the things I love most about cooking is the freedom to adapt recipes, and this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is wonderfully flexible. You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
* Chicken Cuts: While I adore boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be mindful that breasts cook faster and can dry out if overcooked, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Drumsticks or even bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces also work beautifully; they might just need a little longer in the oven for that perfect finish.
* Cranberries: If fresh cranberries are out of season, frozen ones work perfectly well – no need to thaw them before adding to the glaze mixture. For a twist, you could even try dried cranberries, but you might want to reduce the honey slightly as dried cranberries are often sweeter. However, for the true, bright flavor of this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken, fresh or frozen is best.
* Sweetener: Honey provides a lovely depth of flavor, but pure maple syrup is an excellent alternative, especially if you prefer a vegan option for the glaze (though the chicken isn’t). You could also use brown sugar, starting with a bit less and tasting as you go.
* Citrus: Lemon juice and zest can stand in for orange if needed, offering a different but equally zesty tang to your Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken.
* Spice It Up: If your family enjoys a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the glaze mixture will give this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken a delightful kick. A quarter teaspoon usually does the trick!
* Herbs: Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs, added to the pan during the last 15 minutes of baking, infuse the dish with an aromatic, earthy note that complements the cranberry and orange wonderfully.
* Vegetable Boost: Want a one-pan meal? Add some chopped root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or small potatoes to the baking dish alongside the chicken during the last 20-25 minutes of cooking. They will roast beautifully in the delicious glaze drippings, making your Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken an even more complete meal.
* Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your soy sauce is certified gluten-free (tamari is a great choice) to keep this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
These variations mean you can truly make this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken your own, adapting it to your family’s tastes and what’s available.
One of the things I love most about cooking is the freedom to adapt recipes, and this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is wonderfully flexible. For another fun and adaptable chicken dish, check out the delightful Broccoli Cheese Balls.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a straightforward process, designed for delicious results without any fuss. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time.
1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear.
Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works best) over medium-high heat.
Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the chicken thighs, skin-side down if applicable, or just one side down for boneless, skinless. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until beautifully golden brown. You are not cooking the chicken through at this stage, just building flavor and color.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Glaze: Reduce the heat to medium.
Add the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar to the same skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – those are flavor bombs!
4. Thicken the Glaze (Optional): If you prefer a thicker glaze for your Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken, in a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Slowly whisk this slurry into the simmering cranberry mixture. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze thickens to your desired consistency.
The cranberries will burst and soften as it cooks.
5. Return Chicken to Skillet: Nest the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, arranging them in a single layer.
Spoon some of the luscious cranberry orange glaze over each piece of chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
6. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 18-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. During the last 5-7 minutes of baking, you can spoon more glaze over the chicken a couple of times to build up that beautiful sticky coating.
7. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains tender and moist.
8. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra orange zest, if desired. Serve your magnificent Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken hot with your favorite side dishes.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is simple when you know a few tricks. These tips will help you elevate your dish from good to absolutely amazing every single time.
* Pat Your Chicken Dry: This is perhaps the most crucial step for beautiful searing. Moisture on the chicken skin prevents browning and can lead to a steamed, rather than seared, texture. Always use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken dry before seasoning.
A perfectly seared exterior makes all the difference for this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken.
* Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the chicken, ensure you leave enough space between each piece. If you cram too many pieces into the skillet, the temperature drops, and the chicken steams instead of searing, resulting in a pale, less flavorful crust.
Work in batches if necessary, and use a large enough oven-safe skillet.
* Taste and Adjust the Glaze: Before adding the chicken back, taste your cranberry orange glaze. If the cranberries are particularly tart, you might want a touch more honey.
If it’s too sweet, a splash more apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of orange juice can balance it out. The beauty of homemade Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is that you control the flavors.
* Let the Glaze Reduce: If you skip the cornstarch, allow the glaze to simmer for a few extra minutes on the stovetop to naturally thicken.
This concentrates the flavors and ensures a richer, stickier coating for your Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken. A thick, glossy glaze is key to this recipe’s appeal.
* Baste During Baking: For the most luscious and flavorful Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken, periodically spoon some of that beautiful glaze over the chicken during the last 5-7 minutes of baking.
This helps to build up layers of flavor and a wonderfully sticky, caramelized exterior.
* Use a Meat Thermometer: Overcooked chicken is dry chicken. Investing in an instant-read meat thermometer ensures your chicken reaches precisely 165°F (74°C) without going over.
This guarantees juicy, tender Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken every time.
* Rest the Chicken: Just like any cooked meat, resting the chicken after it comes out of the oven allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This keeps the chicken incredibly moist and tender.
Give it at least 5-10 minutes.
* Fresh Ingredients Matter: While frozen cranberries work, fresh orange juice and zest truly brighten the flavor profile of this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken. Fresh ginger and garlic also make a noticeable difference compared to their powdered counterparts.
Achieving perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is simple when you know a few tricks. To elevate your baking skills and treat yourself after dinner, try making Decadent Chocolate Baked Donuts.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken makes fantastic leftovers, which is always a win in my book! Knowing how to properly store and reheat it ensures you can enjoy its deliciousness for days to come.
* Refrigeration: Once the Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The glaze tends to thicken slightly as it chills, becoming even more intensely flavored.
* Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of the cooked Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken. Place the chicken pieces and any leftover glaze in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
* Reheating in the Oven: This is my preferred method for reheating Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken as it helps the chicken retain its moisture and the glaze can re-caramelize slightly. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to the bottom of the dish to prevent drying, and cover loosely with foil. Reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
* Reheating on the Stovetop: For a quick reheat, you can warm the Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add a splash of water or broth and cover the skillet to create some steam, which helps keep the chicken moist. Heat gently until warmed through.
* Reheating in the Microwave: While convenient, the microwave can sometimes dry out chicken.
If using this method, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish with a tablespoon of water or broth, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring or flipping the chicken halfway through. This method is best for small portions of Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken.
Always ensure your chicken is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
What to Serve With This Recipe
The vibrant flavors of Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken make it a showstopper, and choosing the right side dishes enhances the meal even further. I love pairing it with simple, wholesome accompaniments that complement its sweet and savory profile without overpowering it.
* Fluffy Rice: A classic choice! Basmati rice, jasmine rice, or simple white rice provides a neutral base that perfectly soaks up all that delicious cranberry orange glaze. Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
* Quinoa or Couscous: For a lighter, more nutrient-dense option, quinoa or whole wheat couscous are excellent. They cook quickly and add a lovely texture.
* Roasted Vegetables: This is always a go-to for me.
Broccoli florets, green beans, asparagus spears, or Brussels sprouts, simply roasted with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper, provide a wonderful contrast to the richness of the Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken. Sweet potatoes or butternut squash, roasted until tender and slightly caramelized, also pair beautifully.
* Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint.
Think mixed greens, thinly sliced cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
* Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a comforting side. For a lighter alternative, mashed cauliflower offers a similar texture with fewer carbs, and it’s surprisingly delicious alongside the Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken.
* Wild Rice Pilaf: A hearty and flavorful wild rice pilaf, perhaps with some toasted pecans or dried cranberries (if you want more cranberry goodness!), adds a sophisticated touch.
* Steamed Green Beans with Almonds: A simple side of steamed green beans, tossed with a bit of butter and toasted slivered almonds, brings a nice crunch and earthy flavor that pairs well with the bright Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken.
* Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a good crusty baguette or artisan bread to sop up any extra glorious glaze from your plate!
The vibrant flavors of Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken make it a showstopper, and choosing the right side dishes enhances the meal even further. Consider pairing it with sweet condensed milk bread for a comforting and delicious complement.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken recipe. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add them to the skillet with the other glaze ingredients directly from the freezer. They will break down and release their juices beautifully as they cook.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you certainly can. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great lean alternative for this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken. However, be aware that chicken breasts cook faster than thighs and can dry out if overcooked. Adjust your searing and baking times accordingly, and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) without exceeding it.
Is this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken recipe spicy?
No, the standard Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken recipe is not spicy. It features a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. If you prefer a little heat, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture when it’s simmering on the stovetop.
Can I make the cranberry orange glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Preparing the glaze in advance is a fantastic time-saver for this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken. Cook the glaze as directed in the recipe (steps 3 and 4), then let it cool completely.
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to cook, gently reheat the glaze on the stovetop before adding the seared chicken.
Is this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken meal good for meal prep?
It’s excellent for meal prep! The Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken holds up very well when stored in the refrigerator. Cook a batch on Sunday, then portion it out with your favorite sides like rice or roasted vegetables for easy, delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the leftovers even more enjoyable.
How do I achieve the best glaze for my Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken?
For the best glaze, use fresh orange juice and zest for maximum flavor. Don’t skip reducing the glaze on the stovetop; this concentrates the flavors. If you desire a thicker, more luscious glaze, use the cornstarch slurry. Also, remember to baste the Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken during the last few minutes of baking to build up that beautiful, sticky, caramelized coating.
Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of oranges, creating a unique flavor profile. This recipe not only features a savory chicken base but also provides an excellent way to utilize seasonal fruits, making it a fantastic choice for family meals or special occasions; learn more about culinary uses of fruits in savory dishes through this link.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Approximate values based on 6 servings using boneless, skinless chicken thighs and honey)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 20 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and easy-to-make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken that is perfect for busy weeknights, bringing a burst of seasonal flavor to the dinner table.
Ingredients
2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
½ teaspoon Salt
¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
1 ½ cups Fresh or Frozen Cranberries
½ cup Fresh Orange Juice
Zest of 1 Orange
¼ cup Honey
2 cloves Garlic, Minced
1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger, Grated
1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
1 tablespoon Water (if needed for consistency)
1 tablespoon Cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
Fresh Parsley, Chopped (for garnish)
Extra Orange Zest (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside
- Add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Simmer the mixture gently while scraping up browned bits from the pa
- If desired, thicken the glaze by whisking cornstarch with water and adding it to the mixture, cooking until thickened
- Nest the seared chicken back into the skillet and spoon glaze over the chicke
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
- Let the chicken rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes before serving
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra orange zest if desired
Notes
For best results, use fresh ingredients, especially for the orange juice and zest.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg