Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Cranberry orange glazed chicken brings together bright citrus and tart berries with savory roasted chicken. It is a show-stopping main course that feels special but is easy enough for any night of the week or dinner party.

When I first made this for a Thanksgiving alternative, my friends could not believe how simple it was for the flavor payoff. Every time I serve this, someone asks for the recipe. The combination of cranberry and orange just tastes like celebration food to me. My husband calls this my “holiday signature dish” even when I make it on a Tuesday.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Fresh cranberries: Bursting tartness balances the sweet glaze. Try to pick plump shiny berries and discard any soft ones
• Orange juice: Freshly squeezed gives unmatched tang and aroma. Pick oranges that feel heavy for their size and have a strong citrus scent
• Honey: Natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when baked. Use the runniest honey for best mixing
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken. Choose extra virgin for a smooth peppery taste
• Chicken breasts: The star of the dish. Choose thick cut breasts that are similar in size for even cooking
• Salt and pepper: Foundation seasonings that let other flavors shine. Use kosher salt and fresh ground pepper for depth
• Garlic powder: Adds subtle savoriness. Opt for a mild garlic powder not garlic salt
• Orange zest: Lifts and brightens the sauce. Choose unwaxed oranges and zest only the vibrant outer layer
• Soy sauce: Adds umami depth. Choose a less salty soy if possible
• Dijon mustard: Gives a gentle tang and brings the glaze together. Pick a smooth creamy Dijon for balance
• Fresh parsley: Offers color and a final herbaceous note. Flat leaf parsley has the strongest flavor

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees F and give it at least ten minutes to fully heat up. A properly preheated oven guarantees even cooking and the best browning

Season the Chicken:

Sprinkle your chicken breasts liberally with salt pepper and garlic powder on both sides. This early seasoning ensures every bite has flavor all the way through

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook undisturbed for five minutes to develop a crisp golden crust. Flip and repeat on the other side. If the chicken sticks give it another minute until it releases easily

Make the Glaze:

Quickly stir together cranberries orange juice orange zest honey soy sauce and Dijon mustard in a mixing bowl. The cranberries will start to pop as you mix which is fine. This fruit-forward glaze will build both flavor and moisture

Add the Glaze:

Pour the prepared glaze all around and over the golden chicken in the skillet. Use a spoon to ensure a little glaze gets under each piece as well

Bake the Chicken:

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes basting with the bubbling glaze halfway through. This step keeps the chicken juicy and coats it with flavor. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F

Rest and Finish:

Remove from the oven and let your chicken rest for five minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness

I love how the cranberries transform during baking bursting and blending into the sticky glaze. Every Thanksgiving my niece insists on scooping up the extra sauce for her veggies. This cranberry orange glaze always adds a festive note any time of year.

Flavor Boosters

Basting halfway through baking is crucial for flavor and moisture. Leftover glaze is delicious drizzled over roasted root vegetables. Use a meat thermometer for the juiciest chicken every time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken over creamy mashed potatoes fluffy rice or wild rice blend to soak up the glaze. Roasted green beans brussels sprouts or carrots make colorful sides. For a festive look top with fresh orange segments and extra whole cranberries for garnish.

Creative Twists

You can swap chicken thighs or drumsticks for chicken breasts for richer flavor and juicier results. Just add five to ten minutes to the bake time and check doneness. Maple syrup works as a honey substitute just use a touch less. If fresh cranberries are not in season try frozen cranberries straight from the freezer or even a few tablespoons of no sugar added cranberry sauce for a similar effect.

This cranberry orange glazed chicken makes holiday cooking easy and memorable. Every time I take this to a potluck at least one person requests the recipe for their own special dinner.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well in the glaze. There's no need to thaw them before adding to the mixture.

→ What cuts of chicken are best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended, but thighs or drumsticks can also be used. Adjust cooking time as needed.

→ How can I ensure the chicken stays moist?

Basting the chicken with the glaze during baking and allowing it to rest after cooking help maintain moisture and flavor.

→ Is it possible to prepare the glaze ahead?

The glaze can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Warm it before pouring over the chicken.

→ What side dishes pair well?

Pair with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a simple green salad to complement the citrus and berry flavors.