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Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken for Effortless Holiday Feasts

Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken is a holiday feast centerpiece that's juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Juicy and richer than breasts
For the Marinade
  • 1 cup Fresh Cranberries Use frozen if fresh isn't available, thaw first
  • 1/4 cup Honey Can substitute with maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Promotes moisture and browning
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Enhances flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar Adds depth to the glaze
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Optional for milder taste
  • 1 Orange Orange (zested and juiced) Fresh is best
  • to taste Sea Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
For Garnishing
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Orange Zest Adds color and freshness
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Cranberries For decoration

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Baking pan
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • mixing bowl
  • zip-lock bag
  • oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Marinade: In a food processor, combine fresh cranberries, brown sugar, olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, orange juice, zest, sea salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-lock bag, pour the marinade over chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly.
  4. Bake Chicken: Transfer marinated chicken to the baking pan, pour any remaining marinade over, and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked.
  5. Broil for Crispiness: Brush chicken skin with a mixture of honey and olive oil, then broil for 2-3 minutes until skin is crispy.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes, then garnish with orange zest and cranberries before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 4mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and follow marination time closely. Ensure internal temperature of chicken reaches 155°F for juiciness.

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