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Cranberry-Glazed Chicken Recipe: Sweet and Savory Delight

By Emma :

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

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Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

Get ready to savor the perfect harmony of flavors with this Cranberry-Glazed Chicken! Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken breasts, smothered in a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze that’s bursting with autumn flavor. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply craving something festive, this recipe is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your table.

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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry-Glazed Chicken Recipe

This recipe combines the essence of fall flavors with the satisfying savoriness of chicken. The cranberry glaze brings a natural sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by a hint of balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard, making every bite a delight for your taste buds.

Reasons to Love This Dish:

  • Easy to Prepare: Quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for a dinner party.
  • Perfect for Fall: Cranberry and balsamic glaze give it that comforting, festive feel.
  • Balanced Flavor: Sweet, savory, and a little tangy—the ideal blend for a crowd-pleasing dish.
  • Garnish for Extra Appeal: Fresh herbs elevate the presentation and add a pop of color.

What Does Cranberry-Glazed Chicken Taste Like?

Imagine a tender, juicy piece of chicken with just the right amount of crispiness on the outside, bathed in a glossy, ruby-red glaze that’s a combination of tart and sweet. The cranberry sauce delivers a fruity depth, while honey and balsamic vinegar balance each other for a rounded flavor profile, with Dijon mustard adding just a hint of zest.

Benefits of Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

  • Rich in Protein: The chicken breast provides lean protein, great for muscle repair and satiety.
  • Antioxidant-Packed Cranberries: Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, supporting immunity and heart health.
  • Balanced Flavors: Sweet honey, tangy cranberries, and balsamic vinegar make each bite satisfying without overwhelming the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cranberry-Glazed Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Tools for Perfect Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

How to Make Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering Cranberry-Glazed Chicken on the table in no time:

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This is essential to bring out the flavor of the chicken itself.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for optimal juiciness.

Step 3: Prepare the Cranberry Glaze

While the chicken is cooking, mix together the cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined, creating a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze.

Step 4: Add the Glaze to the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour the cranberry glaze over the top. Let it simmer in the skillet for about 5 minutes. This will thicken the glaze and let the flavors seep into the chicken, creating a glossy, mouthwatering coating.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Plate each chicken breast and generously spoon any remaining glaze over the top. Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for that extra touch of elegance and freshness.

What to Serve with Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

This Cranberry-Glazed Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes make a perfect match for the tangy glaze.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes roasted with a touch of rosemary complement the flavors wonderfully.
  • Wild Rice Pilaf: The earthy taste of wild rice adds a nice contrast to the sweet and savory chicken.
  • Green Salad: Keep it light with a mixed greens salad to balance out the richness of the glaze.

Tips for Making the Best Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

  1. Use a Meat Thermometer: This will ensure the chicken is cooked through without being overdone.
  2. Let the Sauce Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering step! This allows the glaze to thicken and coat the chicken evenly.
  3. Go for Fresh Garnish: Fresh thyme or parsley adds both visual appeal and a hint of freshness that ties the whole dish together.

Storing and Reheating Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

This chicken dish is ideal for meal prep or leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet on low heat to preserve the glaze’s texture, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.

FAQ: Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but bone-in chicken will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the chicken and glaze as directed, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet and pour the glaze over it during the last few minutes.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce?

If you prefer fresh cranberries, cook them down with a bit of sugar and water to create a sauce before adding it to the glaze mixture.

Is there a substitute for balsamic vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute, though it will alter the taste slightly. Balsamic vinegar adds a unique depth that pairs particularly well with cranberries.

Conclusion: Enjoy a Cozy, Delicious Meal

This Cranberry-Glazed Chicken is a wonderful way to bring seasonal flavors to your dinner table without a lot of fuss. Its stunning glaze, balanced flavor, and beautiful presentation make it a go-to dish for cozy nights in or holiday gatherings. Trust me, once you taste that tangy-sweet glaze, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe all season long!

Be sure to check out other cozy fall favorites, and let me know how your Cranberry-Glazed Chicken turned out! Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest and tag us!

More Fall-Inspired Recipes You’ll Love:

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Estimated based on a single chicken breast with glaze.

  • Calories: 270 kcal
  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 10g
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Cranberry-Glazed Chicken

Cranberry-Glazed Chicken Recipe: Sweet and Savory Delight


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

 

Savor the cozy flavors of fall with this Cranberry-Glazed Chicken recipe! Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, then topped with a rich, sweet-tangy cranberry glaze made with honey, balsamic vinegar, and a hint of Dijon. This beautiful dish is quick to prepare, festive, and packed with flavor—perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive dinner gathering.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides for extra flavor.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
  • Pour the cranberry glaze over the cooked chicken in the skillet, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken and coat the chicken.
  • Plate the chicken, drizzle with remaining glaze, and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, try marinating the chicken in a bit of balsamic vinegar and olive oil before cooking.
  • This recipe works well with bone-in chicken but will require additional cooking time.
  • Leftover cranberry-glazed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated on the stove over low heat for best results.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with glaze
  • Calories: 270 kcal
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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