Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

There’s something irresistibly bright and festive about the combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges, especially when paired with tender, juicy chicken. This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken recipe brings a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The glaze is simple to make, requiring just a handful of wholesome ingredients, and it coats the chicken beautifully, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s as vibrant in color as it is in taste. If you’re a fan of dishes that feel both comforting and a little bit fancy, this recipe is about to become a new favorite in your rotation.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

If you’re looking to add something fresh and exciting to your meal lineup, Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a fantastic option. The glaze strikes a perfect harmony between the natural tartness of cranberries and the bright citrus pop from fresh orange juice and zest. It’s sweetened just enough with honey to create a sticky, caramelized finish that clings to the chicken breast, making every bite flavorful and succulent.

Unlike heavier sauces, this glaze is light and fresh, ideal for those who want a delicious meal without feeling weighed down. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — pair it with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or the Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes for a complete, well-rounded plate.

Another reason to love this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to serve guests. The ingredients are pantry staples and fresh produce you can find year-round, so you don’t have to wait for a special season to enjoy it.

What’s in the Bowl

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the star of the dish, lean and tender
• 1 cup fresh cranberries – packed with tartness and vibrant color
• 1/2 cup orange juice – fresh-squeezed for the best flavor punch
• 1/4 cup honey – natural sweetness to balance the tang
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for searing and adding richness
• 1 teaspoon orange zest – amplifies the citrus aroma and flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – for a subtle kick
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – adds savory depth
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – rounds out the flavor profile

Setup & Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan – for searing chicken and simmering the glaze
• Measuring cups and spoons – to keep ingredient ratios perfect
• Zester or microplane – to get that fresh orange zest
• Spoon or spatula – for stirring the glaze
• Knife and cutting board – prepping chicken and zesting oranges
• Plate and foil – for resting chicken after cooking

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step ensures a nice sear later. Next, zest one orange carefully, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith beneath the skin. Juice the orange until you have about 1/2 cup of fresh juice. Measure out your cranberries, honey, and spices—the recipe comes together quickly once you start cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts evenly. This seasoning base adds a subtle depth that complements the sweet and tangy glaze perfectly.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. The goal here is to develop a nice crust that locks in juices. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering loosely with foil to rest.

Step 4: Make the Cranberry Orange Glaze

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer gently. The cranberries will begin to pop and soften, and the sauce will thicken to a sticky glaze in about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 5: Glaze the Chicken

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the glaze over them. Let them cook together for an additional 3-4 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to coat it evenly with the vibrant glaze. This step infuses the chicken with those bright fruity flavors and gives it a shiny, appetizing finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the glazed chicken to serving plates, spooning extra sauce on top. This dish pairs beautifully with simple roasted vegetables or a creamy side like the Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes. For a fun twist, serve alongside the Sticky Sesame Orange Chicken Bowls if you want a citrus theme across meals.

Ingredient Flex Options

• Chicken thighs: Use boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier, more forgiving cut.
• Maple syrup or agave nectar: Swap for honey if you prefer a different natural sweetener.
• Fresh ginger: Add 1 teaspoon grated for a warm, spicy note in the glaze.
• Dried cranberries: Use when fresh cranberries aren’t available; soak briefly in orange juice to plump them.
• Lime zest and juice: Substitute orange with lime for a sharper citrus flavor.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Overcooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.
• Burning the glaze: Keep the heat at medium or medium-low when simmering the sauce, and stir frequently to prevent sticking.
• Uneven searing: Make sure your pan is hot before adding chicken. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to allow even browning.
• Too tart or too sweet glaze: Taste the glaze as it simmers. Adjust honey or orange juice gradually to get the balance you prefer.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a fantastic option for meal prep because it reheats beautifully without losing its flavor or texture. Make a batch ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, spooning extra glaze over the chicken to keep it moist. This dish also freezes well; just freeze cooked chicken separately from the glaze to maintain the best texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well. Thaw them slightly before cooking, or add them directly to the glaze — they will cook down nicely and release their vibrant color and tartness.

Is this recipe suitable for grilling?

Yes! You can grill the seasoned chicken breasts over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, then brush on the cranberry orange glaze during the last few minutes to caramelize. Just be mindful of flare-ups due to the sugar in the glaze.

What can I serve with Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken?

This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Try simple steamed green beans, quinoa salad, or the rich and creamy Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh green salad or roasted root vegetables.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before adding to the cooked chicken. This can help save time on busy days.

Weekend Projects

• Sticky Sesame Orange Chicken Bowls – for a bold, sweet-savory meal with an Asian twist.
• Sticky Orange Glazed Meatballs – a flavorful appetizer or main course with a citrus punch.
• Browned Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes – a luscious and comforting side that complements the zesty glaze beautifully.

Next Steps

Ready to impress with a dish that’s both simple and show-stopping? Start by gathering fresh cranberries and a juicy orange, then dive right into creating this vibrant Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe will brighten up your plate and your palate. Experiment with the ingredient flex options to make it your own, and don’t forget to explore the linked recipes for complementary dishes that keep your meals exciting and flavorful.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is proof that a few fresh, well-chosen ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s memorable, nourishing, and downright delicious. Enjoy every sticky, tangy bite!

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