Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight
As the leaves start to turn and the air carries a crisp promise of the upcoming season, I find myself longing for dishes that feel like a warm embrace. This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is just that—a tender fusion of zesty oranges and rich cranberry sauce that brings comfort and a hint of sweetness to your dinner table. There’s a nostalgic quality to this dish that reminds me of family gatherings, where laughter mingles with the aroma of delightful meals simmering in the oven. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe will fill your home with warm, inviting scents that make you feel right at home. You’ll definitely want to pin this recipe for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
- A delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that everyone in the family will love.
- Perfect for meal prep—make ahead and reheat for a delicious lunch or dinner.
- Versatile recipe that pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
- Beautifully garnished, it’s a dish that’s not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes!
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 orange, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Let’s Make It Together
In a bowl, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed, and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
Pour the fragrant cranberry-orange glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak in all the lively flavors.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh orange slices for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Variations & Creative Twists
While the original recipe shines on its own, here are a few fun ways to customize it to your liking:
- Cranberry Pear Glaze: Swap out a portion of the cranberry sauce for pear preserves for a richer, fruitier twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the cranberry glaze for a delightful contrast that will wake up your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle some fresh thyme or rosemary over the chicken just before serving for an aromatic garnish that adds a touch of sophistication.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans over the finished dish for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sauce beautifully.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the glaze a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and pour it over the cooked chicken when you’re ready to eat!
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use fresh chicken thighs instead of breasts if you prefer darker meat; they will cook in the same way and be beautifully succulent.
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through for best results.
- Slicing Trick: For easier slicing, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting into it; this helps retain its juices and keeps every bite tender!
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugars: 14g
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 580mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Prepare the glaze in advance and cook the chicken when you’re ready for dinner.
Can I use different ingredients?
Yes, feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a plant-based option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet or microwave until warm.
How long does it last?
Leftovers can last up to 3 days in the fridge, but the flavors are at their best when fresh.
A Cozy Closing Note
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a dish that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your dinner table. Its vibrant flavors and comforting aroma make it a perfect choice for family dinners or special gatherings. When you share this dish, you’re not just serving food—you’re sharing a moment of joy, laughter, and connection. So save this recipe to your cozy weeknight dinners board so it’s ready when you need a comforting treat! Happy cooking, friends!
Print
Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A tender fusion of zesty oranges and rich cranberry sauce that brings comfort and sweetness to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 orange, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Pour the cranberry-orange glaze over the chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh orange slices.
Notes
Make the glaze a day in advance and store in the refrigerator. Use fresh chicken thighs for a different flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken, cranberry, orange, glazed, easy dinner, weeknight meal