Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweet zest of orange. This recipe creates a glossy, tangy glaze that perfectly complements tender chicken breasts. It’s an impressive yet simple meal to prepare for any occasion.

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: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir well to create the glaze.
5. Step 5: Pour the glaze over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet.
6. Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Step 7: Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with the glaze to enhance flavor and moisture.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
9. Step 9: If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for an added touch of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, but frozen cranberries can also work if fresh are unavailable.
• For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze mixture.
• If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the chicken in a regular skillet and then transfer to a baking dish before adding the glaze.
• Serve with rice or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat to prevent drying out. The glaze may thicken when chilled, so stir or add a splash of orange juice when reheating to loosen it.

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. Adjust baking time to ensure they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Is it possible to make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cranberry orange glaze up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature or warm slightly before pouring over the chicken.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 68 reviews

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a delightful dish combining tender, seared chicken breasts with a tangy and sweet glaze made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, and honey. Baked to perfection, it offers a perfect balance of citrusy zest and savory flavors, making it an impressive yet easy-to-make meal for any occasion.

• Author: Nora
• 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

Glaze

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

Seasonings & Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish (optional)

• Fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken with the glaze.
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 the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust, locking in the juices.
4. Make the Glaze: In a separate bowl, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful glaze.
5. Add the Glaze: Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
7. Baste the Chicken: Halfway through baking, baste the chicken with the glaze from the skillet to keep it moist and enhance its flavor.
8. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
9. Garnish: Optionally, garnish the chicken with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Notes

• Use an oven-safe skillet to sear and bake the chicken to avoid transferring the chicken to another dish.
• Freshly squeezed orange juice provides the best flavor for the glaze, but store-bought 100% orange juice can be used as a substitute.
• Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee it is safely cooked.
• For a thicker glaze, simmer the cranberry mixture on the stovetop before adding it to the chicken.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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