If you love the perfect balance of tangy and sweet with a savory twist, this Cranberry Glazed Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need to brighten up your dinner table. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are lovingly coated in a luscious cranberry glaze that brings vibrant color and a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special gathering, this dish pairs simple ingredients with easy steps to create something truly memorable. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorites to share with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in crafting that unique, mouthwatering flavor and gorgeous appearance of the Cranberry Glazed Chicken Recipe. From fresh cranberries to fragrant thyme, these staples come together to create a harmony of tart, sweet, and savory notes that you won’t forget.
- 4 pieces (1.5 lbs) Boneless chicken breasts: The tender base that soaks up the delicious glaze perfectly.
- 1 cup Fresh cranberries: Adds vibrant color and a pop of tanginess essential for that signature glaze.
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness to balance the tart cranberries.
- 3 minced Garlic cloves: Infuses a fragrant depth that complements both the chicken and the glaze.
- 1/4 cup Low-sodium soy sauce: Adds a savory saltiness and helps enhance all the other flavors.
- 2 tbsp Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and keeping the chicken juicy and golden.
- 1 tsp Fresh thyme: Offers a subtle, earthy note that rounds out the dish beautifully.
How to Make Cranberry Glazed Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when the chicken needs baking. While the oven warms up, season your chicken breasts simply with salt and pepper to let their natural flavors shine through.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Thyme
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and fresh thyme. Sauté them for about one minute until they become wonderfully fragrant, releasing those mouthwatering aromas that will set the stage for this dish.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet and cook them for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a beautifully golden-brown crust that locks in juiciness and adds a wonderful texture contrast.
Step 4: Prepare the Cranberry Glaze
While the chicken browns, mix together fresh cranberries, brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, and a splash of water in a bowl. This combination creates the magical glaze that will coat your chicken with a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking dish and pour the cranberry glaze evenly over the top. This is where the flavors begin to mingle beautifully under the heat of the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your chicken for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The glaze will thicken and bubble, coating the chicken in a shiny, irresistible cranberry sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
How to Serve Cranberry Glazed Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley adds a burst of fresh green color and an herbal brightness to contrast the rich glaze. For an extra pop, consider adding some whole fresh cranberries on top.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, which soak up every bit of that luscious cranberry sauce. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans complement the savory-sweet balance perfectly, rounding out the meal with color and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish on a large platter with rosemary sprigs or citrus slices around the edges for festive flair, especially during holiday meals. You can also slice the chicken breasts and drizzle the glaze over individual plates for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cranberry glazed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the glaze covers the chicken pieces well to keep them moist and flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later meals, freeze the chicken separately from the glaze for best results. Wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Warm it gently in a skillet or oven at a low temperature to prevent drying out. Adding a spoonful of leftover cranberry glaze during reheating helps maintain that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work well and are a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw them slightly and drain any excess liquid before mixing the glaze.
Is boneless chicken thighs a good substitute?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used and offer a juicier, slightly richer taste. Just adjust cooking time accordingly as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the glaze gluten-free without sacrificing any flavor.
How long can I store leftover chicken in the fridge?
It’s best to consume leftovers within 3 days to ensure freshness and food safety. Always store it in airtight containers to keep flavor intact.
Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days. This makes the cooking process even quicker when you’re ready to bake the chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Glazed Chicken Recipe is truly a shining star in the realm of home-cooked meals, blending familiar ingredients into something vibrant and extraordinary. The joyful combination of flavors and colors will not only impress your guests but also fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort. I can’t wait for you to try it and find out just how easy it is to bring a touch of elegance and excitement to your everyday dinner!
Print
Cranberry Glazed Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cranberry Glazed Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts coated in a vibrant, sweet-tart cranberry sauce. The chicken is first seared to a golden brown in a skillet and then baked in the oven with a flavorful glaze made from fresh cranberries, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and fresh thyme, resulting in a delicious balance of savory and fruity flavors perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 pieces (1.5 lbs) boneless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
Cranberry Glaze
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 splash water (about 1–2 tbsp)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Season Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté Garlic and Thyme: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Sear Chicken Breasts: Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Make Cranberry Glaze: While the chicken is searing, combine the fresh cranberries, brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, and a splash of water in a mixing bowl. Stir well to mix the ingredients.
- Assemble for Baking: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Pour the cranberry glaze evenly over the chicken, ensuring the fruit and sauce cover each piece thoroughly.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the cranberries have softened to create a thick glaze.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. The cranberry glaze will be warm, slightly sticky, and flavorful—perfect on its own or alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- For extra tenderness, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries can be used but may require a slightly longer baking time to soften.
- The soy sauce adds a savory depth, but for a gluten-free option, substitute with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain moisture.
- Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the cranberry glaze.
