Print

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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