introduction

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken gives you bright sweet and tart taste. It cooks fast and looks nice on a plate. If you like simple orange sauce, see a 3-ingredient orange chicken recipe for a quick idea.

why make this recipe

You will make this when you want a warm, fruity meal that feels new. The glaze lifts plain chicken with fresh orange and tart cranberries. This mix makes a good weeknight main or a meal for guests. You can also pair it with bread or cake like cranberry orange bread for a nice set.

how to make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

You will sear the chicken, make the sauce, then bake. Keep steps short and clear. First dry and salt the meat, then brown it in hot oil. Make the glaze in the same pan to catch the brown bits. Spoon the glaze on the chicken, then finish in the oven. For other sauce tips, read an easy orange chicken guide.

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)
Try a sweet side or dessert like fluffy white chocolate cake cranberry orange compote after this dish.

Directions :

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 pan.
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 chicken.
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.

how to serve Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Serve the chicken hot with rice, potatoes, or green veg. Spoon extra glaze on top at the table. For a fall or winter menu, you can add a roast or try a maple glazed roast chicken for a second main dish.

how to store Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Cool the dish to room temp before you store it. Put it in an airtight box and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a low oven or in a pan on the stove until warm. You can freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed bag for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before you reheat.

tips to make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Use fresh orange juice for the best fresh taste.
Pat the chicken dry so it browns well.
Save the pan bits when you make the glaze for more flavor.
If the glaze gets too thick, add a splash of water.
Check the chicken with a meat thermometer for safe doneness.

variation (if any)

Use chicken breasts if you prefer white meat; watch the cook time.
Add a splash of bourbon or orange liqueur to the glaze for a warm note.
Stir in chopped shallot with the garlic for a mild sweet bite.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes. You can use frozen cranberries right from the bag. They cook well in the glaze.

Q: Is this safe for kids?
A: Yes. The sauce is sweet and mild. Leave out the red pepper if kids will eat it.

Q: Can I make the glaze ahead?
A: Yes. Make the glaze a day ahead and warm it before you add the chicken.

Q: How do I make the glaze thicker?
A: Mix cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the simmering glaze. Wait until it thickens.

Q: Can I use a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Brown the chicken first, then cook with the glaze in a slow cooker on low for 3–4 hours.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken