Looking for a tasty and easy dinner idea? Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is your answer! This dish combines the sweet tang of cranberries with the bright zest of oranges, creating a meal that shines. With just a few fresh ingredients and pantry staples, you can whip up a flavorful dinner that impresses. Join me as we explore the simple steps, tips, and tricks to make this crowd-pleaser one to remember!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Glaze: The combination of cranberries and orange juice creates a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the chicken.
- Simple Preparation: This recipe is quick to prepare, with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Healthy Option: Using boneless chicken breasts and fresh ingredients, this dish is a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Impressive Presentation: With its vibrant colors and elegant garnish, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike.
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients Overview
For this dish, fresh ingredients make a big difference. Here’s what you need:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Using fresh cranberries adds bright flavor and color. Fresh orange juice gives the glaze a sweet and zesty kick. Grated ginger and minced garlic add warmth and depth.
Pantry Staples Needed
You also need some common pantry items. Here’s the list:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Honey balances the tartness of the cranberries. Soy sauce adds umami, which enhances the chicken’s flavor. Olive oil helps in cooking the chicken, making it juicy.
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
If you want to boost the taste, consider these optional items:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
Fresh rosemary gives a nice herbal note. You can mix it into the glaze or sprinkle it on top before baking. It adds a lovely aroma and makes the dish even more special.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps for the Glaze
To start, gather your ingredients for the glaze. You will need fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
1. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and minced garlic.
2. Cook this mixture over medium heat. Stir it well until the cranberries begin to burst, which takes about 5–7 minutes.
3. After that, remove the pan from the heat. Let the glaze cool for a bit while you prepare the chicken.
Cooking and Searing the Chicken
Next, it’s time to prepare the chicken.
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides well.
2. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 4–5 minutes on each side. This gives the chicken a nice golden color.
Baking and Finishing Touches
Now you are ready to finish the dish.
1. Pour the cranberry-orange glaze over the seared chicken. Make sure every piece is well coated.
2. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh rosemary on top for added flavor.
3. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
4. Bake for 25–30 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy.
Serve the chicken sliced, with extra glaze drizzled on top. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring the Perfect Glaze Consistency
To get a great glaze, start with fresh cranberries. Cook them in a small pot with orange juice, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Stir it often until the berries pop, about 5–7 minutes. This step helps release their natural juices. If the glaze is too thick, add a splash of water or more orange juice. If it’s too thin, cook it a bit longer. You want a nice, thick sauce that clings to the chicken.
Recommended Cookware for Best Results
I recommend using an oven-safe skillet. A cast-iron skillet works well because it heats evenly. This helps the chicken get a nice brown crust. If you don’t have one, you can use any oven-safe pan. Just make sure it can handle high heat. This way, you can sear the chicken and bake it in the same dish. It makes cleanup easier too!
Seasoning Variations to Experiment With
Feel free to play with the seasoning! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Try using lemon juice instead of orange juice for a zesty twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a nice touch too. If you enjoy a sweet flavor, a dash of cinnamon can enhance the glaze. Don’t be afraid to mix and match! Each change can bring a new taste to your dish.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cranberries and freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor in your glaze.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the glaze for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Check Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking; this helps retain its juices for a more tender bite.

Variations
Alternative Proteins (Pork, Tofu Options)
You can swap chicken for pork or tofu. Pork chops work well with this glaze. Sear them just like the chicken. Then, bake until they reach 145°F (63°C). For tofu, use firm tofu. Cube it and pan-fry until golden. Then, add the glaze and let it simmer. Both options taste great with the cranberry-orange flavor.
Flavor Tweaks (Spicy Additions, Citrus Variations)
Want a kick? Add red pepper flakes to the glaze. This small change adds heat without overpowering the dish. You can also try lime or lemon juice instead of orange juice. The different citrus brings a fresh twist. Another idea is to mix in a bit of barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions (Sides and Garnishes)
Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or fluffy rice. Both options soak up the sweet glaze. You can also serve it with a light salad for a fresh touch. For garnish, add extra cranberries and rosemary on top of the chicken. This not only looks pretty but adds more flavor. Enjoy this dish with friends and family for a tasty meal!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken, let it cool down. Place the chicken in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to add any extra glaze on top before sealing it. This keeps the chicken moist and tasty.
Reheating Tips for Best Flavor
To reheat your chicken, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish. Pour some glaze over the top to keep it juicy. Cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm. This method keeps the flavors fresh and delicious.
Freezing the Dish for Future Meals
You can freeze the chicken for later. First, let it cool completely. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. Label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. To eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat. Enjoy a quick meal anytime!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. They work well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the saucepan. You may need to cook them a bit longer. Frozen cranberries can be a great option when fresh ones are not available. They also add the same sweet-tart flavor.
How to know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part. The juices should run clear, not pink. Cook the chicken for 25–30 minutes in the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
What are the best sides to serve with Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken?
Great sides for this chicken dish include:
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- Rice or quinoa for a hearty option
- Mashed potatoes for a comforting touch
- A fresh green salad with citrus dressing
These sides balance the sweet glaze and make a full meal. Enjoy experimenting with your favorites!
In this blog post, we explored making a delicious Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken. I shared key ingredients, from fresh picks to pantry staples. We went through each step, from preparing the glaze to baking the chicken. I provided tips for perfecting your glaze and suggested fun variations. Finally, I covered how to store leftovers for future meals.
Cooking is fun, and experimenting enhances flavors. Enjoy trying this recipe and making it your ow

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 0.5 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 0.25 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Stir the mixture until the cranberries start to burst, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- While the glaze is cooling, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear on each side for about 4–5 minutes until golden brown.
- Pour the cranberry-orange glaze over the chicken in the skillet, ensuring it's evenly coated. If using, sprinkle the chopped rosemary on top.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing the chicken.


