Dinner

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery December 6, 2025December 6, 2025

Introduction

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken offers a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors that elevate a simple chicken breast to a gourmet meal. With a vibrant glaze made from fresh cranberries and orange juice, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion.

The image shows several golden-brown chicken pieces coated with a thick, shiny glaze, topped with bright red berries and finely chopped green herbs scattered over them. The chicken looks juicy and crispy under the sweet, sticky sauce that covers each piece. The dish is placed inside a white bowl, and the rich colors of the sauce and berries contrast with the white bowl, all set 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: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet 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 to make the glaze.
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 baking, baste the chicken with the glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 8: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra zest, add a splash of lemon juice to the glaze mix.
Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option with more flavor.
If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen ones work well; just rinse and drain before use.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.

Storage

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to preserve the glaze’s flavor and moisture.

How to Serve

This close-up image shows several pieces of cooked chicken thighs covered in a thick, shiny orange-brown sauce. The chicken has a moist, glossy texture, with whole red berries, possibly cranberries, spread generously on top of each piece. Small pieces of fresh green herbs, likely chopped chives, are sprinkled over the chicken and sauce, adding a fresh pop of color. The chicken sits tightly packed together in a white dish, placed on a white marbled surface. The sauce glistens under the light, making the dish look rich and flavorful. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the glaze ingredients a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before pouring over the chicken.