Dinner

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken Recipe

ByRita Bennet December 6, 2025December 6, 2025

Introduction

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a delightful mix of tangy and sweet flavors that make for a memorable meal. With a simple glaze made from fresh cranberries and orange juice, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The image shows several pieces of golden brown cooked chicken thighs covered in a thick, shiny red cranberry sauce. The sauce has whole cranberries and small bits of chopped herbs sprinkled on top, adding bright green contrast against the rich red and orange hues of the chicken and sauce. The chicken is close together, filling the frame, with a glossy, moist look that makes the dish appear fresh and delicious. The dish is served in a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh cranberries

1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
1 tablespoon orange zest

1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir well.

Step 5: Pour the glaze over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet.
Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with the glaze to enhance flavor and moisture.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 9: If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for an added touch of color.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh cranberries for the best tart flavor, but frozen can be used if fresh aren’t available—just thaw them first.

For extra citrus brightness, add a splash of lemon juice to the glaze.
Serve with steamed rice or roasted vegetables to make a complete meal.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the glaze on the stove for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The glaze may thicken when chilled; simply add a splash of water or orange juice when reheating to loosen it.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of six golden brown chicken pieces covered in a glossy, thick sauce with a deep reddish-orange color. Each piece is topped with bright red whole cranberries and finely chopped green herbs, scattered evenly over the dish. The textures include the smooth, sticky sauce coating the chicken, the soft cranberries, and the tiny crunchy herb bits. The food is served in a white rectangular dish, set against a white marbled background. The overall look is rich and vibrant with warm colors and fresh garnishes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well with this recipe. They may require slightly longer cooking, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing is recommended as it locks in flavor and gives the chicken a nice golden crust, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time. The dish will still be tasty.