Go Back
–+ servings
Cranberry Orange Chicken

Cranberry Orange Chicken: A Juicy One-Pan Delight

Cranberry Orange Chicken combines sweet and tart flavors with tender chicken thighs, perfect for family dinners and festive occasions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 lbs Chicken Thighs Juicy dark meat that stays tender; substitute with skin-on chicken breasts for a lighter option.
For the Sauce
  • 12 oz Fresh Cranberries Provide a tangy flavor and vibrant color; frozen cranberries can be used if fresh are unavailable, thaw and drain excess water.
  • 1/4 cup Honey Adds sweetness and moisture; maple syrup works as a substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for moisture and browning the chicken.
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Caramelizes during cooking, enhancing sweetness and depth.
  • 2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar Infuses the dish with tanginess; avoid using regular vinegar.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Wonderful aromatic addition; can be omitted for a milder taste.
  • 1 zest and juice Fresh Orange Crucial for brightness and citrusy essence; fresh is better than bottled.
  • to taste Sea Salt and Black Pepper Basic but essential for proper seasoning.

Equipment

  • oven
  • Food Processor
  • Baking Dish
  • Ziplock bag
  • Brush

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a food processor, combine fresh cranberries, honey, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, orange juice and zest, sea salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over the chicken, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Arrange the marinated chicken in a greased baking dish, pour any excess marinade over the top, and scatter fresh cranberries around the chicken. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
  5. Mix a tablespoon of honey with a tablespoon of olive oil and brush it over the chicken before broiling for an additional 2-3 minutes for crispy skin.
  6. Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes, garnish with fresh orange zest and extra cranberries, then serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for tender meat.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!