Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try

If you’re looking for a dinner that is both elegant and packed with flavor, Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is the perfect choice. This dish strikes a delightful balance between sweet, tangy, and savory notes, creating a glaze that perfectly complements tender, juicy chicken breasts. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

The star of this recipe is the vibrant cranberry-orange glaze, which not only adds beautiful color to the plate but also infuses the chicken with a bright, zesty flavor. Fresh cranberries provide tartness, while orange juice and zest bring sweetness and aromatic depth. Honey and Dijon mustard enhance the richness, while soy sauce adds a subtle umami kick. The result is a harmonious, well-rounded dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

This recipe is simple enough for beginners but sophisticated enough to feel special. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step, from preparing the chicken and glaze to cooking tips, serving suggestions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

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, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparation Method

Preparing the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This ensures that the olive oil and seasonings stick properly and helps the chicken sear nicely. Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. The goal is to develop a flavorful crust while keeping the interior juicy. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Cranberry Orange Glaze

In the same skillet, add the orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—these add extra flavor to the glaze. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Add the fresh cranberries and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the glaze cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the cranberries begin to soften and burst. The result should be a glossy, rich glaze with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

Combining Chicken and Glaze

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the glaze over each piece to coat them evenly. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the glaze for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Turn the chicken halfway through to ensure it’s coated evenly and infused with flavor.

Serving the Chicken

Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and drizzle with extra cranberry-orange glaze from the skillet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a side of rice to soak up the delicious glaze. For a festive presentation, consider adding a few whole cranberries on the plate.

Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Chicken

1. Use fresh cranberries: They provide natural tartness and pop when cooked, balancing the sweet glaze.
2. Freshly squeezed orange juice: This creates a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought juice.
3. Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add an extra tablespoon of honey. For a tangier flavor, reduce the honey slightly or add a splash of lemon juice.
4. Cooking evenly: Pound thicker chicken breasts slightly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent overcooking the thinner edges.
5. Make ahead: The glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before adding the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Can I prepare this in the oven?
Absolutely. After searing the chicken on the stovetop, transfer the chicken and glaze to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly. Allow them to thaw slightly or add an extra minute to the glaze cooking time to ensure they soften.

How can I make the glaze thicker?
Simmer the glaze longer until it reaches your desired consistency, or mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the glaze while simmering.

What should I serve with this chicken?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, wild rice, or a simple green salad. The cranberry-orange glaze is perfect for drizzling over sides as well.

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Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a versatile, elegant, and flavorful dish that can elevate any dinner. The combination of juicy chicken, tart cranberries, and citrusy glaze creates a meal that is sure to impress family, friends, or even yourself on a cozy weeknight. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dish you’ll want to make again and again.