Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken is the perfect dish to brighten up any meal with its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation. This delightful recipe combines succulent chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy cranberry-orange glaze that will tantalize your taste buds. Ideal for festive occasions or family dinners, this dish promises to impress your guests and loved ones alike.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken
This Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are six reasons why you’ll adore it:
- Flavorful: The combination of oranges and cranberries creates a sweet and tangy balance.
- Easy to Make: This Orange Cranberry Chicken Recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: Using chicken thighs keeps it juicy while offering a healthier protein option.
- One-Pan Wonder: You can cook this Baked Chicken with Orange Sauce and Cranberries all in one pan, reducing cleanup time.
- Festive Appeal: The vibrant colors make it a stunning centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet flavors, making it a hit for family dinners.
With its Oven-Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken method, you can quickly whip up this delicious meal in under an hour, allowing you to enjoy more time with your family and friends.
Ingredients for Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken
Gather these items:
- 8 chicken thighs
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3: Place the chicken thighs in the baking dish and pour the cranberry-orange mixture over the chicken.
- Step 4: Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbling.
- Step 5: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken
Keep these in mind:
- Always check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the orange juice mixture for a few hours before baking.
- Feel free to add additional vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes to the baking dish for a complete meal.
Best Ways to Serve Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal.
- A fresh salad to add a crisp contrast to the sweet and tangy chicken.
How to Store and Reheat Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This is a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this Easy Baked Chicken with Orange and Cranberry later in the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken
What’s the secret to perfect Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken?
The secret lies in the marinade and cooking time. Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances the flavors, while cooking it just right ensures it remains juicy.
Can I make Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance, then bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken?
Ensure your oven is preheated before baking, and avoid overcooking the chicken by checking its internal temperature regularly.
Variations of Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken You Can Try
If you’re looking to experiment, consider these variations:
- Substitute chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option.
- Add sliced oranges or other citrus fruits for an extra burst of flavor.
- Sprinkle with nuts like almonds for added crunch and texture.
These adaptations keep the dish fresh and exciting, allowing you to enjoy this Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Chicken in new ways!
For more delicious chicken recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Cranberry Orange Pancakes for a delightful breakfast option!
For more tips on cooking chicken, you can refer to this nutritional guide on chicken to understand its health benefits.
Print
Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken: 5 Festive Flavors to Enjoy
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs: A Flavorful and Festive Dish
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or mint (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup brown sugar. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In a small saucepan, combine the fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/4 cup sugar, and orange zest (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries soften and begin to burst. Once softened, remove from heat and pour over the cream cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon brown sugar over the cranberry topping. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Let the dip cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or mint, if desired, and serve warm with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the dish
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken
