Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken: Easy 4-Star Meal

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken has become my absolute go-to for a meal that feels special but is surprisingly simple to whip up. I remember the first time I made it for a holiday gathering; the aroma of the sweet and tangy cranberry orange chicken filling my kitchen had everyone asking for seconds before they even took a bite! The vibrant glaze, with its perfect balance of tart cranberries and bright orange, coats the tender chicken beautifully. If you’re wondering how to make cranberry orange glazed chicken that impresses without the fuss, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with this fantastic chicken dish! It’s a winner for so many reasons:

• Incredible Flavor: You’ll adore the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and citrusy notes that make this chicken so delicious.
• Quick Prep Time: This is an easy cranberry orange chicken recipe, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and vibrant fruit, it fits right into a healthy eating plan.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with common pantry staples and affordable chicken, it’s a great meal for any budget.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will ask for more of this crowd-pleasing chicken.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful glaze makes this an easy cranberry orange chicken dish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Versatile: It pairs wonderfully with almost any side dish you can imagine.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delightful chicken dinner. This cranberry chicken recipe orange glaze comes together with ease:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – about 6-8 oz each, patted dry
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries – these provide the tartness and vibrant color
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice – for that essential citrusy sweetness
• Zest of 1 orange – this adds a concentrated burst of orange flavor
• 1/4 cup honey – to balance the tartness and create a beautiful glaze
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – adds umami and depth to the glaze
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for searing the chicken to a golden brown
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic – a flavor powerhouse
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated – adds a warm, zesty kick
• Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – for a pop of green and freshness

How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Get ready to create a truly memorable meal with this straightforward guide. This cranberry orange chicken glaze is surprisingly easy to master!

1. Step 1: Prepare the Glaze Mixture
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, the zest from 1 orange, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated. This creates the base for our vibrant sauce.
2. Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
   Place your 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour about half of the cranberry-orange mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
3. Step 3: Preheat and Sear
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the used marinade), season it generously with salt and pepper, and place it in the hot skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown.
4. Step 4: Bake and Glaze
   Once seared, carefully pour the remaining cranberry-orange mixture over the chicken breasts in the skillet. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen! Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Basting the chicken with the pan juices halfway through will enhance the cranberry orange chicken glaze.
5. Step 5: Rest and Serve
   Remove the skillet from the oven. Spoon some of that luscious, bubbly cranberry orange chicken glaze over the chicken tops for an extra flavor boost. Let the chicken rest in the skillet for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Want to elevate your chicken game? Here are my go-to tips for making this dish absolutely perfect every time.

• Don’t Skip the Sear: That golden-brown crust on the chicken adds so much flavor and texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries and oranges really make the glaze pop.
• Taste and Adjust: Before baking, give your glaze a taste. Need more sweetness? Add a touch more honey. More tang? A squeeze of lemon can help.
• Don’t Overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F (75°C).
• Let It Rest: Resting the chicken after baking is crucial for juicy, tender meat.

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken?

The real magic lies in the balance of sweet and tart in the glaze. Using both fresh orange juice and zest ensures a vibrant, authentic citrus flavor. My secret is a tiny pinch of cinnamon in the glaze, which complements the fruit beautifully.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the glaze and marinate the chicken up to 2 hours ahead for a deeper flavor. For a full cranberry orange chicken dinner, you can also cook the chicken and glaze, then reheat gently before serving. This is a great option if you’re looking for easy chicken recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken?

The biggest mistake is overcooking the chicken, which leads to dryness. Always cook to temperature, not just time. Another pitfall is using too much liquid in the glaze, making it watery. Thicken it slightly by simmering before baking for a perfect consistency. For more cooking tips, check out this guide on cooking techniques.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

This beautiful chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with so many dishes. For a truly elegant meal, try serving your glazed chicken with cranberry and orange alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy quinoa. They soak up the delicious sauce perfectly! Another favorite of mine is to serve it with roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus; the slight bitterness of the vegetables offers a lovely contrast to the sweet and tangy glaze. You might also enjoy our Zucchini Noodle Chicken Alfredo for a lighter option.

You could also make it a complete cranberry orange chicken dinner by pairing it with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for dipping into any extra glaze. It’s a meal that feels sophisticated but comes together with such ease! For other chicken ideas, explore our full recipe collection.

Nutrition Facts for Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delightful chicken dish:

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 400mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For more information on healthy eating, you can refer to resources like the MyPlate website.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Leftovers of this delicious cranberry orange glazed chicken are a treat, and storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. Once the chicken has cooled down, transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container. You can keep it refrigerated for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to preserve it for longer, consider it for a future meal by freezing it. Wrap each portion securely in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Think of it as a convenient way to have a quick cranberry orange chicken casserole ready to go!

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored chicken, reheating is simple. For refrigerated portions, you can gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, or pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first, then reheat using either the skillet or oven method. Be sure to spoon some of the reserved sauce over it during reheating to keep it moist and flavorful. This is similar to how you might reheat Persian chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute cranberry orange chicken thighs for the breasts. They often stay more moist and tender. Adjust the baking time slightly; bone-in thighs might take a little longer, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Once cooled, store any leftover cranberry orange glazed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes for a fantastic quick lunch the next day!

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the cranberry orange glaze a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great way to save time, especially if you’re planning a weeknight cranberry orange chicken dinner.

How do I ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out?

To prevent dry cranberry orange chicken breast, make sure not to overcook it. Using a meat thermometer is your best friend here – aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Also, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it wonderfully moist. This is a tip that applies to many chicken dishes.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken You Can Try

Looking to switch things up or cater to different needs? This versatile dish offers plenty of room for creativity. Here are a few ways to explore variations of the best cranberry orange chicken recipe:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the glaze mixture for a sweet and spicy cranberry orange chicken.
• Sheet Pan Meal: Toss chopped vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add them to the baking sheet with the chicken during the last 20-25 minutes of cooking for a complete meal.
• Slow Cooker Method: Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker, pour the glaze over them, and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until cooked through. This is a fantastic way to achieve tender cranberry orange chicken thighs or breasts with minimal effort.
• Gluten-Free/Soy-Free: For a gluten-free version, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari. For a soy-free option, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

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