Description
This easy Cranberry Glazed Chicken recipe combines juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze. Perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners—ready in under an hour!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
For Garnish
- Fresh thyme or rosemary
- Orange zest or slices (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. - Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown (about 5–6 minutes per side). Remove and set aside. - Make the Glaze:
In the same pan, add cranberries, orange juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, mustard, and brown sugar. Stir and simmer for 8–10 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens. - Combine and Cook:
Return chicken to the pan, spoon glaze over top, and cook another 5–7 minutes until chicken is cooked through and glaze coats evenly. - Serve:
Garnish with thyme and orange zest. Serve warm with mashed potatoes or wild rice.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- If glaze gets too thick, thin it with a splash of orange juice.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes