Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs bring a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to your dinner table with minimal effort. This one-pan wonder combines juicy chicken thighs with fresh cranberries and bright orange, creating a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to deliver restaurant-quality results.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for a Sunday family dinner. The kitchen filled with the most incredible aroma as the cranberries bubbled and the orange zest released its oils. What started as a simple weeknight experiment has become one of my most-requested recipes. The beauty of these orange cranberry chicken thighs is how the fruit naturally caramelizes in the oven, creating a glossy sauce that clings to the crispy skin. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or hosting a holiday gathering, this baked chicken recipe delivers bold flavor without complicated techniques. The combination of sweet honey, tart cranberries, and citrusy orange creates perfect balance in every bite.

What You’ll Need to Make Orange Cranberry Chicken

I always recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay incredibly moist during baking and the skin gets beautifully crispy. The cranberries can be fresh or frozen, which makes this dish accessible year-round. Pro tip: I prefer using fresh orange zest and juice because it gives the sauce a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled juice.

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw if frozen)
• 1 large orange (zest and juice, about 1/4 cup juice)
• 1/4 cup honey (adjust to taste if you prefer less sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon rosemary (dried or fresh, I prefer fresh when available)
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Results

I recommend taking your time with the prep work because properly seasoned chicken makes all the difference. Pat the thighs completely dry before seasoning so the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for rendering the fat and crisping the skin while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 2: Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels and arrange them skin-side up in a large roasting pan. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. The dry surface helps achieve that golden, crispy skin we’re after.

Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme. Stir everything together until the honey is fully incorporated into the mixture. You should see the cranberries well coated in the orange-honey glaze.

Step 4: Pour the orange-cranberry mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken thighs, making sure some sauce gets under and around each piece. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot of liquid, it will reduce and thicken as it bakes.

Step 5: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin turns golden brown. Watch for the sauce to bubble and thicken around the edges.

Step 6: For extra crispy skin, switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye during this step because the sugars in the honey and cranberries can burn quickly under high heat.

Step 7: Remove the pan from the oven and let the baked orange cranberry chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping every bite tender and moist.

Step 8: Serve the chicken with the cranberry sauce spooned over the top or on the side for dipping. The sauce will have reduced into a beautiful, glossy glaze that’s perfect for drizzling.

Best Side Dishes for This Meal

The sweet and tangy flavors of this dish pair wonderfully with sides that balance richness and freshness.

Roasted vegetables: Brussels sprouts, carrots, or butternut squash complement the fruity notes while adding earthy depth to your plate.

Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the orange cranberry sauce beautifully and provide comfort food satisfaction.

Simple green salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds refreshing contrast to the meal.

Wild rice: The nutty flavor of wild rice pairs perfectly with cranberry chicken and adds wonderful texture to each forkful.

Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans or broccoli keep the meal light while letting the baked chicken shine as the star.

More Delicious Chicken Dinners to Try

These baked orange cranberry chicken thighs complement a variety of other flavorful chicken dishes that are perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. For another sweet and savory combination, try the festive Cranberry Orange Glazed Chicken, which features a similar fruit-forward glaze with tender chicken.

When you’re craving rich, creamy comfort food, consider pairing this recipe with hearty sides from dishes like Creamy Tuscan Chicken or Creamy Jack Cheese Chicken. For a lighter option that still delivers bold flavors, the Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken offers a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes that chicken lovers will adore.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store leftover baked orange cranberry chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to include plenty of the cranberry sauce with the chicken to keep it moist. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

To reheat, I recommend using your oven rather than the microwave to maintain the crispy skin. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in an air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 minutes for quick meals.

Pro tip: The flavors actually deepen after a day in the fridge, making leftovers taste even better. This makes orange cranberry chicken perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinner planning.

Common Questions About This Recipe

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