introduction

This recipe makes warm, sweet, and tangy chicken you can make at home. It uses fresh cranberries and orange to make a sticky sauce. If you like orange chicken, you may also like the 3-ingredient orange chicken for a quick weeknight meal.

why make this recipe

This dish will give you bright and fresh flavors. The sauce adds a sweet tang that kids and adults both like. You can make the sauce fast and it makes the skin crisp and brown. Serve it with simple sides like rice or green beans and a loaf like the cranberry orange bread for a full meal.

how to make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

You will sear the chicken first to make the skin crisp. Then you will make a quick cranberry orange glaze on the stove. You will bake the chicken with the glaze so it becomes sticky and caramelized. For an easy citrus method, see tips from the easy orange chicken recipe for ideas you can use here.

Ingredients :

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup fresh cranberries, divided
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon cold water
1 orange, thinly sliced for garnish (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

If you want a sweet dessert to match, try a compote like the fluffy white chocolate cake with cranberry orange compote after this meal.

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step helps keep the meat juicy. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet on medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 6 to 8 minutes without moving them. Let the skin turn deep golden and crisp.
Flip the chicken and sear the other side for 2 to 3 minutes. Take the skillet off the heat.
While the chicken sears, make the glaze. Put 3/4 cup of the fresh cranberries, the orange juice, and the brown sugar in a small pan. Warm on medium heat. Stir until the sugar melts and the cranberries start to burst, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Whisk the cornstarch with the cold water until smooth. Stir this mix into the pan. Cook and stir until the glaze gets thick and syrupy, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Place the seared chicken in one layer in a large baking dish if your skillet is not oven safe. Pour about two-thirds of the glaze over the chicken. Make sure each piece gets some sauce. Scatter the rest of the fresh cranberries and a few orange slices around the chicken if you use them.
Bake for 20 minutes. Take the dish from the oven and baste the chicken with the pan juices. Drizzle the rest of the glaze on top. Put the dish back and bake 15 to 20 more minutes. Cook until the chicken reaches 175°F (80°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, away from the bone. The glaze should be sticky and caramelized. The meat should be cooked but not dry.
Let the chicken rest in the dish for 5 to 10 minutes before you serve. This rest helps the juices spread through the meat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

how to serve Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Serve this chicken with plain rice, steamed vegetables, or roasted root veg. Add a fresh green salad for a light side. For a cozy roast idea that also uses sweet glaze ideas, try a roast recipe like maple glazed roast chicken for a different main with similar notes.

how to store Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Put leftovers in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warm, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat well before you eat.

tips to make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Dry the skin well for a crisp finish.
Do not crowd the pan when searing. Work in one layer.
Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor.
Taste the glaze and change the sugar to match your taste.
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

variation (if any)

Use chicken breasts if you prefer white meat. Reduce bake time and watch temp.
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the glaze for a deeper taste.
Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want heat.

FAQs (minimum three FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes. Thaw them first or add a few more minutes to the cooking time when you simmer the glaze.

Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the glaze a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Warm it gently before you use it.

Q: How do I know the chicken is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer. The thigh should read 175°F (80°C) near the bone.

Q: Can I use boneless thighs?
A: Yes. Reduce bake time and check the internal temp to avoid overcooking.

Q: Is this meal kid friendly?
A: Yes. The sweet and mild tang usually pleases kids. Adjust the sugar if you need a milder taste.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken