Introduction to Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Have you ever craved a dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day? If so, you’ll absolutely adore this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken! It’s a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with loved ones.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—it comes together quickly while delivering an impressive look and taste. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite as it fills your home with a tantalizing aroma that whispers comfort and joy. Buckle up, and let’s elevate your dinner tonight!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals like us. It’s not only quick to prepare, but the vibrant glaze brings a burst of flavor that even picky eaters will love. Plus, the ease of using just one skillet means less clean-up. In just 45 minutes, you’ll have a dinner that’s both impressive and satisfying. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward culinary magic! For this cranberry orange glazed chicken, you’ll need a variety of flavorful items. Here’s what to look for:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show; tender and easy to cook.
- Fresh cranberries: Their tartness is key to unlocking that vibrant flavor in the glaze.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice: For the best zest, nothing beats the freshness of real oranges. It adds sweetness and acidity.
- Orange zest: Don’t discard the peel! It’s a great flavor booster that’s like sunshine on your plate.
- Honey: This natural sweetener perfectly balances the tartness of the cranberries, enhancing the glaze.
- Soy sauce: Just a splash adds depth and umami to the dish—be sure to go for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt.
- Olive oil: This will help with searing the chicken, giving it a beautiful, golden crust.
- Dijon mustard: A hint of tanginess from mustard rounds out the glaze beautifully.
- Garlic powder: For a warm, savory note, garlic powder complements the other flavors perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural taste of the chicken.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle before serving brightens the dish and adds a touch of color.
If you’re missing some of these ingredients, don’t fret! Feel free to get creative with substitutions; maple syrup can replace honey, and lemon juice can substitute for orange juice in a pinch. For those busy weeknights, many of these essentials can usually be found in any well-stocked pantry.
For exact measurements and a handy printable list, refer to the bottom of the article. Happy cooking!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to create some magic in the kitchen! Follow these steps to make your Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken shine on your dinner table.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Preheating is crucial for even cooking and helps the chicken to crisp up beautifully. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While your oven warms up, it’s time to prep the chicken. Pat those chicken breasts dry with a paper towel—moisture is the enemy of that perfect sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will enhance the chicken’s natural flavors, and who doesn’t love a well-seasoned bite?
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Next, heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add your chicken breasts once the oil is shimmering. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, until they reach a golden-brown hue. Achieving that crust gives your dish a burst of flavor you won’t want to miss!
Step 4: Make the Cranberry Orange Glaze
Now for the fun part: making that mouthwatering glaze! In a mixing bowl, combine fresh cranberries, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir until everything is nicely blended. Taste it to ensure the balance of sweetness and tartness is just right. Really, who can resist a flavorful glaze?
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Pour that glorious cranberry orange glaze over your seared chicken in the skillet, ensuring even coverage. This will help the glaze infuse into the chicken while baking. Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven, allowing the magic to happen!
Step 6: Baste for Flavor
Halfway through the baking process, take a spoon and baste the chicken with the pan juices. This step is vital—it keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. Trust me; it’s worth the extra effort!
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Finally, once your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F), remove it from the oven. It’s crucial to let it rest for about 5 minutes to retain those juicy flavors. Slice it up and serve, garnishing with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken turns out deliciously every time, keep these handy tips in mind:
- Always pat the chicken dry for a great sear.
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and color contrast.
- Taste the glaze before pouring it over the chicken to adjust flavors.
- Invest in a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken.
- Don’t skip the resting time—it keeps the chicken juicy!
Equipment Needed for Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Before diving into this delectable dish, gather a few essential tools. You don’t need anything fancy; just some trusty kitchen staples will do.
- Large oven-safe skillet: Ideal for searing and baking; a cast-iron skillet works great too!
- Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl will help you combine the glaze ingredients smoothly.
- Meat thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature—this is crucial!
- Paper towels: Perfect for patting the chicken dry before cooking.
Variations for Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Life is full of surprises, and so is cooking! If you’re looking to switch things up with this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken, there are plenty of flavorful or dietary adaptations you can try. Here are some fun ideas:
Flavorful Twists
- Spicy Glaze: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic touch that screams gourmet.
- Maple Orange Glaze: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a distinct sweetness that pairs beautifully with the citrus.
Dietary Adaptations
- Paleo-Friendly: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a soy-free version that maintains flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace honey with a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to reduce sugar content.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free, or swap in tamari to meet gluten-free needs.
These variations don’t just cater to different dietary needs, but they also keep your meals exciting and fresh. Explore these twists on the classic recipe and let your culinary creativity sparkle!
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
When it comes to serving this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken, the right accompaniments will elevate your meal even further. Here are some delightful ideas:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess complements the tart glaze beautifully.
- Steamed Green Beans: For a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Rice Pilaf: A fragrant base that soaks up all that delicious sauce.
- Light White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly and enhances the meal’s flavors.
- Chopped Salad: Add some freshness with a salad topped with a citrus vinaigrette.
FAQs about Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
If you’re curious about this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken and want to learn a bit more, you’re in luck! Here are some frequently asked questions that might help clear things up.
Can I use frozen cranberries for the glaze?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries can work well in the glaze, although they may release more moisture. Just thaw them before adding to ensure they blend nicely.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken can be placed in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
What can I serve with this dish?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a side of bright green veggies. Don’t forget to soak up that delicious glaze!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just marinate the chicken and bake it fresh when you’re ready to feast!
Is this a gluten-free option?
Yes, you can make this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken gluten-free by using tamari in place of soy sauce. It works beautifully while keeping that glorious flavor intact!
Final Thoughts on Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Cooking should be a joyous adventure, and this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is just that! It’s a recipe that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart and home with its delectable aroma.
Every bite of this dish reminds us that even on the busiest days, we can create something remarkable. Whether sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet evening alone, this simple, yet elegant meal transforms any dinner into a memorable occasion. So, gather your ingredients and let this flavorful chicken bring a little extra joy to your table tonight!
Print
Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and flavorful dish of chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy cranberry-orange sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
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
- For best results, use fresh cranberries.
- Adjust honey based on your desired sweetness level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Oven-baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with glaze
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
