Overview

This baked orange cranberry chicken thigh dish gives you warm, sweet, and tart flavors. It cooks in the oven and needs little work. If you like bright orange taste, try a quick 3-ingredient orange chicken for another simple meal idea.

why make this recipe

Make this dish when you want a fast, tasty meal that feels a bit special. The orange juice and zest give a bright scent. The cranberries give a tart pop that balances the honey. You can make this for a weeknight or a small dinner with friends, and it pairs well with many sides, like a sweet bread such as cranberry orange bread.

how to make Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Start by mixing the sauce and get the chicken ready. Coat the thighs well so the juice and honey can stick. Roast the chicken with the cranberries so the fruit cooks and the sauce turns syrupy. For another orange style, you can read a simple guide on easy orange chicken to learn different tricks.

Ingredients :

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup fresh cranberries
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
1/4 cup honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Optional: fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium bowl, combine orange juice, zest, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until the honey is fully dissolved.
Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish in a single layer.
Pour the orange and honey mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring the thighs are well-coated.
Scatter fresh cranberries around and over the chicken.
Sprinkle dried thyme evenly over the chicken.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
If the chicken needs extra color, switch the oven to broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
Optionally, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving.

how to serve Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Serve the chicken with rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. Spoon the pan juices and cooked cranberries over the chicken for more flavor. For a hearty plate, try it with baked potatoes or a simple side like baked ranch chicken on the side in a shared meal.

how to store Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Cool the chicken to room temperature before you store it. Put it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or heat gently in a skillet to keep the skin from getting soggy.

tips to make Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Pat the skin dry before you bake so the skin can get crisp.
Use fresh orange juice for the best bright taste.
Toss the cranberries lightly so they do not all sink under the chicken.
If you want more depth, add a small splash of vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
For a sweet finish idea, try it with a dessert like white chocolate cranberry orange compote.

variation (if any)

Use boneless thighs if you want less cook time; reduce the bake time by about 10 minutes and watch the internal temperature.
Swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Add a few orange slices to the pan for extra orange flavor and nice color.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes. Use fresh or frozen cranberries. If frozen, no need to thaw first, but the sauce may take a bit longer to thicken.

Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: You can mix the sauce and marinate the chicken for a few hours in the fridge. Do not marinate more than 24 hours.

Q: How do I know the chicken is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer. The internal temp should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Q: Can I skip the soy sauce?
A: Yes. You can skip it or use a low-salt option. The soy adds a small depth of flavor but is not required.

Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs