Tangy Sweet-Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken Recipe

Cranberry magic brings an unexpected twist to your classic chicken dish, blending tart and rich flavors in a delightful culinary adventure.

Succulent chicken breasts become the perfect canvas for a vibrant glaze that dances between sweet and tangy notes.

Seasonal ingredients combine effortlessly, creating a meal that feels both comforting and exciting.

Bold cranberry notes weave through tender meat, promising a memorable dining experience.

Each bite tells a story of balanced flavors and thoughtful cooking techniques.

Curious cooks can easily master this simple yet impressive recipe that will spark conversation around the dinner table.

Flavor Variations For Cranberry Chicken

• Turkey Swap: Replace chicken with turkey breast for a leaner protein option, maintaining the same delicious cranberry glaze and cooking method.
• Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, pressing out excess moisture before searing and glazing to create a plant-based alternative.
• Low-Carb Option: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar in the glaze and serve with roasted cauliflower or zucchini as a low-carbohydrate side dish.
• Herb-Infused Variation: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage instead of thyme, adding a unique flavor profile to the cranberry glaze and chicken.

Suggested Pairings For Cranberry Chicken

• Festive Feast Pairing: Serve this vibrant cranberry glazed chicken alongside fluffy wild rice pilaf or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious glaze.
• Holiday Table Star: Garnish the dish with fresh thyme sprigs and additional whole cranberries for a stunning presentation that will wow dinner guests.
• Balanced Meal Companion: Complement the sweet and tangy chicken with roasted green vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus to create a well-rounded, nutritious meal that balances flavors perfectly.
• Leftover Magic: Transform remaining chicken into a delightful salad or sandwich filling by shredding the meat and mixing with a light mayo or adding to a crisp green salad for a quick lunch option.

Storage Advice For Cranberry Chicken

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken remains moist by covering with some remaining glaze.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, preventing freezer burn by removing excess air from the container.
• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying. Warm on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature to ensure even heating.

FAQs

• What makes the cranberry glaze so special?

The glaze combines sweet and tangy flavors by mixing cranberries, sugar, and potentially some citrus or vinegar, creating a rich, complex coating that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken.

• Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, thighs, or even a whole cut-up chicken. Just ensure the pieces are similar in size for even cooking and adjust cooking time slightly based on the cut.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be white throughout with no pink areas and clear juices.

Why Sweet And Savory Cranberry Chicken Works

• Wow Weeknight Winner: Minimal prep and straightforward cooking steps make this dish perfect for busy families seeking delicious dinner solutions without complicated techniques.
• Flavor Explosion Guaranteed: Cranberry glaze delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes that transform ordinary chicken into a restaurant-quality meal everyone will love.
• Impressive Yet Simple: Despite looking and tasting sophisticated, this recipe requires basic cooking skills and common ingredients, making it accessible for home cooks of all experience levels.
• Versatile Meal Champion: Adaptable to multiple side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or salad, ensuring this chicken can become a reliable go-to recipe for different dining preferences.

Ingredients For Cranberry Glazed Chicken

• Chicken Pieces: Fresh chicken that serves as the main protein for this delicious main course.

• Cranberry Sauce, Honey, Brown Sugar: A sweet and tangy combination that creates a rich, sticky glaze for the chicken.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds depth and a slight acidic balance to the sweet glaze.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides a subtle sharp flavor that complements the sweetness of the glaze.

• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: Adds bursts of tart flavor and visual appeal to the dish.
• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: Brings a subtle herbal note that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Olive Oil: Helps in searing the chicken and preventing it from sticking to the pan.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.

How To Make Cranberry Glazed Chicken

Step 1: Create Delightful Cranberry Glaze

Grab a small pot and place it over medium heat.

Whisk together the glaze ingredients until they blend smoothly.

Let the mixture bubble gently, stirring constantly to help sugar dissolve completely.

Watch as the sauce transforms into a rich, glossy consistency.

Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375°F.

This perfect temperature will help cook the chicken evenly and create a beautiful golden exterior.

Step 3: Sear Chicken to Golden Perfection

Grab a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan.

Drizzle olive oil and heat over medium flame.

Carefully place chicken pieces in the pan, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust on each side.

Don’t worry about cooking them completely through – just aim for a lovely color.

If any excess fat accumulates, drain it off to keep things crisp.

Step 4: Dress and Bake the Chicken

Pour the vibrant cranberry glaze over the seared chicken.

Scatter fresh or frozen cranberries across the top, and sprinkle some aromatic thyme sprigs for extra flavor.

Slide the skillet into the preheated oven.

Bake for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and has absorbed all those delicious flavors.

If any extra liquid remains after baking, simply drain it away.

Step 5: Plate and Enjoy

Transfer the beautifully glazed chicken to a serving platter.

The combination of sweet cranberries and savory chicken will make mouths water.

Pair with your favorite side dishes and watch everyone dig in with excitement!

Tips For Sweet And Savory Chicken

• Stir the glaze constantly while cooking to avoid scorching and ensure a smooth, even consistency.
• Pat chicken dry before searing to get a beautiful golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture.
• Spread fresh or frozen cranberries across the chicken for balanced flavor and attractive presentation.
• If the sauce seems too runny after baking, reduce it on the stovetop or drain excess liquid for a more concentrated glaze.
• Use an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan to seamlessly transfer from stovetop to oven without changing cookware.

Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Cranberry Glazed Chicken offers a perfect balance of tangy and rich flavors that dance across your palate. Succulent chicken meets zesty cranberry sauce, creating a memorable meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 8 chicken thighs or drumsticks (seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika)

Sauce and Glaze Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sweet barbecue sauce (like honey garlic)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup cranberry juice
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 heaping tablespoon dark brown sugar
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard (maple-flavored preferred, but any kind works)

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• Fresh thyme sprigs
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. Craft a luxurious cranberry glaze by combining ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking until sugar dissolves and mixture thickens into a glossy consistency. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F, ensuring precise temperature for optimal cooking results.
3. Select a robust, oven-safe skillet and warm olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place chicken pieces, allowing each side to develop a golden-brown crust without cooking completely through. Drain excess fat to prevent sogginess.
4. Generously drape the prepared cranberry glaze over seared chicken, scattering fresh cranberries and delicate thyme sprigs across the surface for enhanced flavor complexity.
5. Transfer skillet directly into preheated oven, roasting for 35-40 minutes until chicken reaches perfect internal temperature and glaze caramelizes beautifully.
6. Once cooked, remove from oven and let chicken rest for 3-5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and glaze to set.
7. Plate the glazed chicken, garnishing with additional fresh thyme and a sprinkle of cranberries for visual appeal and vibrant flavor.

Notes

• Choose chicken breasts or thighs with consistent thickness to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
• Pat chicken dry before searing to achieve a perfect golden-brown exterior and develop deeper flavor caramelization.
• Lower the heat if the glaze starts to burn quickly, as cranberry sugars can caramelize rapidly and create bitter undertones.
• Customize the glaze’s sweetness by adjusting honey or maple syrup quantities to suit different taste preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 195 kcal
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg