Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a simple, delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners. The sweet and tart glaze adds a bright flavor to the tender chicken. It cooks easily in the oven and can be served on busy weeknights or special occasions. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this cozy meal!

Why You Will Love This Dish

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. The ingredients are straightforward and often found in your pantry. Plus, it’s a wholesome option that your whole family will enjoy. With minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just under an hour.

How to Make This Dish

Making this glazed chicken is simple. You start by preparing the glaze on the stove while you sear the chicken in a skillet. Then, you bake everything together, allowing the chicken to soak up all that wonderful flavor. It’s an approachable recipe that anyone can master.

What You Need

4 chicken breasts
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and soy sauce, and bring to a simmer until cranberries burst and sauce thickens slightly.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange glaze over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve This Dish

This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the extra glaze. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad make nice accompaniments too. This dish is great for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

How to Store This Dish

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, place cooled chicken and glaze in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Recipe Tips

Check the chicken’s doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
When making the glaze, let the cranberries cook just until they burst for the best texture.
You can substitute maple syrup for honey if you prefer.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick in the glaze.
For a more festive version, add diced apples or nuts to the glaze.

Variations & Swaps

Try using chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
Substitute orange juice with lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Use frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze and sear the chicken up to a day in advance. Just store everything separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, combine them and bake as directed.

Can I freeze the glazed chicken?
Yes, this dish freezes well. After cooking and cooling, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be safely stored for about 3 months, making it a great make-ahead option.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. You can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or in the microwave for quicker warming.

What can I use as a substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as substitutes for honey. They will maintain a similar sweetness, giving the glaze a lovely flavor.

What sides would you recommend serving with this chicken?
Some great sides include steamed green beans, roasted sweet potatoes, or a simple mixed greens salad. They balance the dish nicely and provide a colorful plate.