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Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe

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3.8 from 80 reviews

This Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe combines the rich flavors of fresh cranberries and zesty orange with a touch of honey and balsamic vinegar to create a sweet and tangy glaze over tender, juicy chicken thighs. Perfectly marinated and baked, this dish delivers a delightful balance of citrus and berry notes with a savory finish, making it an impressive yet easy dinner choice.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4-5 chicken thighs with skin or chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup fresh cranberries or frozen (thawed)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large orange, zested and juiced
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup fresh cranberries, brown sugar, olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, orange zest, orange juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated and the marinade is smooth.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs or breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4-6 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  3. Preheat the Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Sear the chicken skin-side down (if using thighs with skin) for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 2 minutes.
  5. Add Cranberries and Honey: Scatter the 1/2 cup fresh or thawed cranberries around the chicken in the skillet. Drizzle 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup evenly over the chicken and cranberries.
  6. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cranberries are soft and bursting.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon some of the pan juices and cooked cranberries over the chicken for extra flavor. Enjoy with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but baking time may vary slightly due to thickness.
  • Feel free to use frozen cranberries if fresh are unavailable; just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
  • Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more.
  • For a thicker sauce, you can simmer the reserved marinade on the stovetop until it reduces before adding it to the pan.
  • This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/cranberry-orange-chicken-recipe/