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Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs

Juicy chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and tangy cranberry orange sauce, perfect for a festive dinner or weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken thighs, skin-side down, for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and thyme. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes until cranberries burst and sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Return chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and spoon some of the glaze over them.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon extra glaze over the top.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry chicken, orange glazed chicken, holiday chicken recipe, baked chicken thighs