This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a flavorful and elegant dish that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the bright citrus notes of orange. The sticky glaze caramelizes beautifully on the chicken as it bakes, creating a dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. It’s a seasonal favorite that balances savory and sweet elements in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful blend of flavors. The tartness of the cranberries is perfectly complemented by the freshness of the orange juice and zest, while a hint of garlic and herbs adds depth to the savory profile. The glaze thickens as it cooks, coating the chicken in a glossy, flavorful finish. Best of all, it’s easy to make and requires minimal prep time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken thighs or breasts, bone-in or boneless
Fresh or frozen cranberries
Orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
Orange zest
Honey or maple syrup
Garlic, minced
Soy sauce or tamari
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey (or maple syrup), garlic, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10–15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
Season the chicken: While the glaze is cooking, season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Add glaze and bake: Pour the cranberry orange glaze over the chicken and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the glaze is thick and glossy.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes approximately 40–45 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cook time.

Variations

Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño to the glaze for a bit of heat.
Different proteins: Try this glaze on turkey cutlets, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Herb variations: Experiment with sage or tarragon for a different herbaceous profile.
Cranberry swap: Use dried cranberries rehydrated in warm orange juice if fresh or frozen are unavailable.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave, though the glaze may not stay as sticky.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but you’ll need to rehydrate them in warm orange juice before making the glaze. Fresh or frozen cranberries yield the best results.

Is it better to use chicken thighs or breasts?

Both work well. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, while breasts are leaner. Choose based on your preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the glaze and sear the chicken in advance. When ready to serve, combine and bake as directed.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What sides go well with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, grill the chicken until cooked through, then brush with the glaze during the final few minutes to avoid burning.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. You can prepare portions ahead of time and store them individually for easy lunches or dinners.

Can I make the glaze sweeter or less sweet?

Yes, adjust the honey or maple syrup amount to suit your taste preference.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh orange juice?

Bottled orange juice can work in a pinch, though fresh juice provides a brighter flavor.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that adds a festive touch to any table. With its perfect balance of sweet, tart, and savory notes, it’s a recipe that’s easy to prepare yet elegant enough for entertaining. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a special dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken