I remember the first time I made Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken for my family. The warm aroma filled the kitchen, wrapping us in a cozy hug. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I wanted to bring a touch of festivity to our dinner. My kids couldn’t contain their excitement; they loved the tangy sweetness of cranberries paired with the vibrant zing of orange. As we gathered around the table, laughter and chatter mixed with the sounds of forks clinking on plates. That night, I realized how food has the incredible power to create memories. This recipe means a lot to me not just for its delicious flavors, but because it brings us together, celebrating the moments we cherish most. Every bite of the juicy chicken smothered in that glossy glaze is a reminder of family, warmth, and love.

Why make this recipe

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken brings joy and flavor to your dinner table. Imagine a dish that combines tart cranberries and sweet oranges, creating a delicious balance. The colors alone will brighten your meal! Not only does it taste great, but it also looks beautiful on your plate. Your family and friends will be impressed as soon as they see it.

Moreover, this dish is convenient. You can prepare it quickly on a busy weeknight or serve it on special occasions. It adapts easily to your personal taste. For instance, you can adjust the sweetness of the glaze or even add more spices if you want a little kick. The chicken stays juicy, while the glaze caramelizes perfectly in the oven. This balance between taste and ease will make you love this recipe even more.

You will appreciate how versatile this dish is too. Serve it with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. The possibilities are endless! No matter how you choose to pair it, Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken makes any meal feel festive. Once you try it, this will become a go-to recipe in your home.

How to make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Ingredients:

4 Chicken breasts, boneless skinless
1 cup fresh Cranberries
1 tsp Garlic powder
1 fresh Parsley
1 tbsp Orange zest
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup Honey
2 tbsp Soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp Olive oil
1 cup Orange juice

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix together cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to create the glaze. Whisk well to combine.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Place seared chicken in a baking dish and pour the cranberry orange glaze over it.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C).
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to serve Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken can shine at dinner parties or simple family meals. To serve, place each glazed chicken breast on a large plate and drizzle some extra glaze from the baking dish on top. The vibrant red cranberries and glossy glaze make it look and feel special!

This dish tastes best when served warm. Allow it to rest for a couple of minutes out of the oven. This way, all those lovely juices will settle back into the chicken. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious glaze. You can also add seasonal veggies like green beans or roasted carrots for color and nutrition.

For a complete meal, pair it with a light salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette works wonderfully. It balances the sweet glaze with a fresh crunch. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread, allowing everyone to wipe their plates clean! Enjoy every bite while feeling the love in the dish.

How to store Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

To store leftover Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken, wait until it cools to room temperature. Place the chicken in an airtight container; this keeps it fresh. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in freezer-safe bags. This way, it will last for about 3 months.

When you want to eat frozen chicken, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, use an oven or microwave until it is warm throughout. Be cautious not to overheat, as the chicken may dry out. If you’re reheating in the oven, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the dish to maintain moisture. Enjoy the same wonderful flavors even when you’re not cooking it fresh!

Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Use fresh cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a nice tartness, but you can use frozen ones if you need to. Just thaw them first. This makes the glaze sweeter and richer, enhancing the flavor.
Searing chicken: Searing the chicken before baking locks in juices. Make sure your pan is hot before adding oil. This helps the chicken brown perfectly.
Homemade glaze: You can adjust the glaze to your taste. If you prefer it less sweet, use less honey. For more tartness, add extra cranberries or a splash of lemon juice.
Herbs and spices: Feel free to play with herbs. Thyme or rosemary adds an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with the sweet glaze. Just sprinkle a bit before baking for a hint of freshness.
Warm chicken before serving: Chicken tastes best warm. If you have to store it, warm it in the oven before serving to get that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Check for doneness: Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer helps by ensuring it’s cooked perfectly without losing its juiciness.
Leftover ideas: If you have leftovers, shred the chicken and mix it into salads or sandwiches. The cranberry glaze makes even reheated chicken delicious!
Clean-up tip: To make cleaning easier, line the baking dish with aluminum foil before pouring in the chicken. This saves time when it comes to cleanup!

Variation of Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Cranberry Pecan Chicken: Add chopped pecans to the glaze for a nutty crunch. The combination of flavors adds a richer layer to your dish, giving it a festive twist.
Spicy Cranberry Chicken: For a kick, mix in a teaspoon of chili flakes to the glaze. This twist adds a spicy layer that surprises your taste buds and makes the dish even more exciting.
Maple-Glazed Chicken: Instead of honey, use maple syrup for a different sweet flavor. Maple adds a deep richness that compliments the cranberries beautifully.
Citrus Herb Variation: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary into the glaze for an earthy flavor. The freshness of the herbs balances the sweetness and brings a refreshing twist.
Low-Calorie Version: For a lighter option, skip the honey and use a sugar substitute. Replace regular soy sauce with a low-sodium version to keep flavors without the added salt.
Kid-Friendly Chicken: If your children enjoy sweeter flavors, consider blending the glaze and adding a bit more honey or orange juice. This makes a milder flavor many kids will love.

FAQs Of Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry orange glaze a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you are ready to use it, just give it a stir to mix it up. This not only saves time but also lets the flavors meld together even more.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in the oven is best. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and put the chicken in a baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot throughout. This way, you maintain the juicy texture of the chicken.
Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Yes! This glaze works beautifully with pork chops or turkey breast as well. Chicken thighs also make a great substitution for a richer flavor. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat used to ensure proper doneness.
How can I tell when the chicken is done?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C). Another way to check is to cut into the chicken and ensure the juices run clear. If they are pink, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve it with fluffy rice or wild rice for a nutty contrast. Each of these sides brings out the delightful flavors of the chicken.
Can I freeze the glaze?
Yes, the cranberry orange glaze freezes well! Just pour it into a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. This way, you can quickly pull it out and use it when needed. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using!

This special recipe for Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken truly captures the spirit of good home cooking. With its vibrant colors and fantastic flavors, it makes any meal feel like a celebration. Enjoy making it your own, and I hope it brings as much happiness to your family as it has to mine.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Author: imrane
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Description

A festive dish combining tart cranberries and sweet oranges that brings joy and flavor to your dinner table.

Ingredients

Scale

4 Chicken breasts, boneless skinless
1 cup fresh Cranberries
1 tsp Garlic powder
1 tbsp Orange zest
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup Honey
2 tbsp Soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp Olive oil
1 cup Orange juice

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix together cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to create the glaze. Whisk well to combine.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Place seared chicken in a baking dish and pour the cranberry orange glaze over it.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C).
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken, cranberry, orange, glazed, festive, dinner, autumn, family meal