If you’re looking for a chicken dinner that feels special without being complicated, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is exactly what you need. Tender chicken breasts are seared until golden, then baked in a glossy glaze made from fresh cranberries, bright orange juice, and a touch of honey.
The result?
A dish that’s sweet, tangy, savory, and deeply comforting — perfect for busy weeknights and festive gatherings.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Chicken Recipe
This isn’t just another baked chicken dish. Here’s what makes it special:
- Bold Sweet-Tangy Flavor – Cranberries and orange create a perfect balance.
- Easy Yet Elegant – Simple steps, restaurant-worthy results.
- Perfect for Holidays – Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinners.
- Healthy & Protein-Rich – Lean chicken with antioxidant-rich cranberries.
- Even Better as Leftovers – The glaze deepens overnight.
Once you try it, this recipe earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Preparation & Cooking Time
One of the best things about this dish? It’s fast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Perfect for weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together beautifully:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh cranberries
- Fresh orange juice
- Orange zest
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Olive oil
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready once the chicken is seared.
2. Season the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a flavorful base.
3. Sear Until Golden
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. This step locks in moisture.
4. Make the Cranberry Orange Glaze
Whisk together cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
5. Add the Glaze
Pour the glaze over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.
6. Bake
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
7. Baste for Maximum Flavor
Halfway through cooking, spoon the glaze over the chicken to enhance flavor and shine.
8. Rest & Garnish
Let the chicken rest briefly, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Make this meal unforgettable with the right sides:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed green beans
- Simple green salad
For drinks, a light white wine or citrus-infused sparkling water pairs beautifully.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: Let the chicken sit in the glaze for 1 hour if time allows.
- Want It Spicy? Add red pepper flakes to the glaze.
- Prefer Juicier Meat? Use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Love Extra Sauce? Double the glaze recipe.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking.
Can I grill this instead of baking?
Absolutely. Grill and baste with glaze for a smoky twist.
What can replace honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup work well.
How do I know the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is more than just dinner — it’s comfort food with a bright, elegant twist. Easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and delicious every single time.
Try it once, and it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen.
