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cranberry orange chicken thighs recipe

Cranberry Orange Chicken Thighs

Zac A., a passionate food creator, smiling while preparing a fresh homemade dish in a cozy kitchen.Zac A.
Juicy chicken thighs glazed with a tangy cranberry orange sauce, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 thighs
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Dish
  • 1 Skillet for searing
  • 1 Mixing Bowl for marinade

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Glaze

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 cloves garlic minced

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a mixing bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and minced garlic. Mix until the honey is fully dissolved.
  • Place the chicken thighs in a large dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Set your oven to 375°F to preheat while you sear the chicken.
  • In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
  • Transfer the seared chicken thighs to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.
  • In the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the chicken with the cranberry-orange glaze. Return to the oven to allow the glaze to caramelize.

Serving

  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.

Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning to achieve a crispy skin. Let the glaze cool slightly before applying.
Ingredient Substitutions: You can use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve: Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Freshness: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Marinate the chicken the night before for even more flavor.
Keyword cranberry orange chicken thighs, fruit glazed chicken, glazed chicken thighs