Introduction to Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to preparing meals. That’s why I’m excited to share my Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken recipe with you! This dish combines the tartness of fresh cranberries and the sweetness of orange juice into a glaze that brings your chicken to life. It’s perfect for dinner parties and weeknight meals alike. In just 45 minutes, you’ll be serving up a dish that’s not only quick but also a true crowd-pleaser. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a steal for any home cook, especially when you’re juggling a thousand things at once! It’s super easy to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The bright, tangy glaze adds a burst of flavor that elevates ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some seasonal fruits, making it not just delicious but nutritious too!
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need for my flavorful Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they’re the perfect protein base for this dish. You could use thighs for a richer flavor.
- Fresh cranberries: These tart gems bring that sweet-and-sour zing. If you can’t find fresh, frozen will work too—just thaw them before using.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice: The essence of citrus! It adds sweetness and acidity. Don’t use bottled juice; fresh is best for flavor.
- Orange zest: A little bit of this bright, aromatic peel gives your glaze a vibrant kick. It’s a simple way to boost flavor!
- Honey: For natural sweetness, honey ties the glaze together. You can swap it for maple syrup if you’re looking for a unique twist.
- Soy sauce: This umami booster balances the sweetness of the honey and fruit, providing depth to the glaze. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to cut back on salt.
- Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, olive oil adds richness and helps in achieving a beautifully browned exterior.
- Dijon mustard: A dash of Dijon adds sophistication and balance; its tanginess complements the sweetness of the glaze.
- Garlic powder: A must-have seasoning, it infuses the dish with a warm aroma. You could use fresh garlic, but adjust to your taste!
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors. Trust your palate here.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of parsley at the end brightens up your dish and adds a lovely pop of color.
Don’t worry about the exact measurements—you’ll find those at the bottom of the article for printing. Let’s gather these ingredients and dive into creating something amazing!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Prepare the Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). This is essential for that perfect bake. While the oven warms up, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying is key, as it helps the seasonings stick. Now, sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Just imagine the delightful aroma already wafting through your kitchen! This quick seasoning ensures every bite is infused with flavor. When the chicken is well-seasoned, it’s ready for the skillet, and your tasty adventure is just beginning!
Searing the Chicken
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers—it’s a sign that it’s ready for action! Carefully place the chicken breasts into the skillet, laying them away from you to avoid splatters. Sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. This step is crucial; it creates a delightful crust that keeps the juices in. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If you’re cooking more chicken, do it in batches. Patience here pays off with flavor!
Making the Cranberry Orange Glaze
While the chicken is searing, let’s whip up that delightful glaze! In a mixing bowl, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Give it a good stir. The balance of sweetness from the honey, tartness from the cranberries, and a kick from the mustard creates a symphony of flavors. Trust your taste buds! If you find it too tangy, adjust it with a touch more honey. This glaze is the cherry on top of your chicken dish!
Baking the Chicken
Once your chicken is beautifully seared, pour the cranberry orange glaze evenly over the chicken in the skillet. Move the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F). Here’s a pro tip: halfway through baking, baste the chicken with the pan juices. This helps lock in moisture and flavor, ensuring each bite is succulent. The glaze will bubble and thicken, creating a sticky, sweet crust. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Letting the Chicken Rest
After removing your chicken from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting is essential; it allows juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays moist. Trust me, a few minutes of patience will result in flavorful, juicy chicken. After resting, it’s time to slice and serve!
Tips for Success
- Always pat your chicken dry before seasoning; this helps with browning.
- Don’t skip the resting step; it’s key for juicy chicken.
- Taste the glaze before using it; adjust sweetness or tanginess to your liking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness; it’s a simple game-changer!
- Feel free to double the glaze ingredients for extra sauce to drizzle over your sides.
Equipment Needed
- Oven-safe skillet: A cast iron skillet works beautifully, but any oven-safe pan will do.
- Meat thermometer: Essential for checking doneness, a simple kitchen thermometer is all you need.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your glaze ingredients; a regular bowl is sufficient.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and serving; you can also use silicone spatulas.
Variations
- Herbed Chicken: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy version of your cranberry orange glaze.
- Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based delight.
- Add Vegetables: Include broccoli or green beans in the skillet for a complete one-pan meal.
- Sugar-Free: Substitute honey with a sugar-free alternative like agave syrup or maple syrup.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious glaze.
- Serve alongside steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- For drinks, a chilled white wine or sparkling water with a splash of orange juice complements the dish beautifully.
- Garnish with additional orange slices or cranberries for a stunning presentation!
FAQs about Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well. Just remember to thaw them first. They may be a bit softer, but they’ll still deliver that delicious tart flavor!
What can I serve with Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You can also add steamed vegetables for a complete meal!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are fantastic for this dish. They offer a richer flavor and stay juicy. Just adjust your cooking time a bit since they may need slightly longer to cook through.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly is by using a meat thermometer. It should read 75°C (165°F) at the thickest part of the meat. Just don’t skip this step for perfectly juicy chicken!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is not just about the delightful flavors; it’s about making memories around the dinner table. This recipe brings a burst of joy, transforming a simple weeknight meal into something extraordinary. You’ll experience the satisfaction of serving a dish that looks as good as it tastes, while your family savors each flavorful bite. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will leave echoes of laughter and joyful conversations at your table. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful chicken dish featuring a sweet and tangy cranberry orange glaze that perfectly complements the juicy chicken breasts.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup (100 g) fresh cranberries
- 240 ml freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon (6 g) orange zest
- 60 ml honey
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon (3 g) garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Set oven temperature to 190°C.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts on both sides for approximately 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir until thoroughly incorporated.
- Pour cranberry orange glaze over seared chicken in the skillet, ensuring even coverage.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 75°C.
- Halfway through baking, use a spoon to baste chicken with pan juices for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Remove skillet from oven. Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature for food safety.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
