Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken

Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing dinner that brings together sweet and savory flavors? This Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken is the perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken with a tangy cranberry glaze that will have your taste buds singing. The combination of fresh cranberries, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup adds complexity and richness, while the chicken stays perfectly moist and flavorful. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this dish is a wonderful way to make a lasting impression.

This recipe is great for those who love bold flavors and a mix of sweet and savory notes in their meals. With minimal prep and easy steps, you’ll have a flavorful, sophisticated dish that looks as good as it tastes. The cranberry glaze pairs perfectly with the seasoned chicken, and the addition of fresh thyme and cranberries adds a beautiful touch to the presentation. Plus, you can easily double the recipe to feed a crowd!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 8 chicken thighs or drumsticks, seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• Fresh thyme sprigs

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup sweet barbecue sauce (like honey garlic)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup cranberry juice
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• ¼ tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp mustard (maple-flavored preferred, but any kind works)
• 1 heaping tbsp dark brown sugar

Directions:

1. Prepare the Glaze:

In a small pot over medium heat, whisk together all the glaze ingredients: barbecue sauce, soy sauce, cranberry juice, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, mustard, and dark brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the glaze has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

2. Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the chicken.

3. Cook the Chicken:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs or drumsticks on both sides until they turn golden brown. This step helps lock in the juices and adds a crispy exterior, but the chicken won’t be fully cooked at this point. Avoid overcrowding the pan and drain off any excess fat or liquid to keep the chicken from becoming soggy.

4. Bake the Chicken:

Pour the prepared cranberry glaze over the seared chicken pieces, making sure they are well-coated. Scatter fresh or frozen cranberries and fresh thyme sprigs over the top for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If there is extra liquid in the skillet after baking, you can drain it off before serving to ensure the glaze coats the chicken nicely.

5. Serve:

Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and serve hot. The combination of sweet cranberries, tangy balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme will infuse every bite with rich flavors. Pair with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan
• Small pot for the glaze
• Tongs for turning the chicken
• Meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through

Tips and Shortcuts:

• Cranberry Substitute: If cranberries are out of season, you can use dried cranberries soaked in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the dish.
• Quick Glaze: If you’re in a hurry, skip making the glaze from scratch and use a pre-made cranberry or BBQ glaze, adding a splash of cranberry juice for extra flavor.
• Chicken Cut Options: This recipe works with chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even bone-in chicken breasts—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Recipe Swaps and Variations:

• Meat Alternatives: Try this glaze on pork chops or turkey breasts for a different take on the recipe.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a hint of heat.
• Herb Variations: Rosemary or sage can be used in place of thyme for a more earthy flavor.

How to Store Leftovers:

Store any leftover Cranberry Glazed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Food and Drink Pairings:

This Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken pairs beautifully with a glass of Pinot Noir or a fruity Zinfandel. For non-alcoholic options, try serving with a sparkling cranberry juice or a ginger beer to enhance the sweet and savory flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the chicken and glaze ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, bake the chicken with the glaze as directed.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
A: Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just as well. You may need to reduce the baking time slightly to ensure they don’t dry out.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The cranberry glaze complements both savory and slightly sweet sides.

More Recipe Suggestions:

Chicken with Buttered Noodles

Baked Brie in Bread Bowl with Cranberry Sauce and Thyme

Apple Pecan Feta Salad

Balsamic Short Rib Sliders with Cranberry Brie and Arugula

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Tomato Mozzarella