Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tangy cranberries and bright citrus flavors with tender, juicy chicken breasts. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a balance of sweet and savory notes that your whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Step 4: In a bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir well to make the glaze.
5. Step 5: Pour the glaze over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet.
6. Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Step 7: Halfway through baking, baste the chicken with the glaze to enhance flavor and moisture.
8. Step 8: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh cranberries for the best tangy flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch—just thaw before using.
• For extra citrus depth, add a splash of lemon juice to the glaze.
• If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the cranberry mixture on the stove for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken.
• Serve with steamed vegetables or rice to soak up the flavorful glaze.

Storage

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a low oven to keep the chicken moist and retain the glaze’s flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require slightly longer cooking time, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the glaze gluten-free.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 519 reviews

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken combines tender, seared chicken breasts with a tangy-sweet glaze made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and a hint of soy sauce. Baked to perfection and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish offers a beautiful balance of flavors ideal for a festive dinner or a comforting weeknight meal.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Glaze

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Garnish

• Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown, sealing in the juices.
4. Make the Glaze: In a bowl, mix together fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
5. Add the Glaze: Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet, covering them well.
6. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
7. Baste the Chicken: About halfway through baking, use a spoon to baste the chicken with the glaze, which helps maintain moisture and intensify flavor.
8. Rest the Chicken: Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute, making it tender.
9. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Notes

• Using freshly squeezed orange juice and fresh cranberries will give the best flavor.
• Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Oven-safe skillets, such as cast iron, are recommended to sear and bake in the same pan.
• For a thicker glaze, simmer the glaze separately before adding it to the chicken.
• Leftover chicken can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 3 days.

Keywords: cranberry orange glazed chicken, baked chicken recipe, healthy chicken dinner, citrus chicken glaze, holiday chicken dish