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Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Baked orange cranberry chicken thighs on white plate with glossy cranberry sauce

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Sweet and tangy one-pan chicken dinner with fresh cranberries and bright orange. Beginner-friendly recipe ready in 60 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 large orange (zest and juice)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 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)
  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large roasting pan. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme. Stir until well mixed.
  4. Pour the orange-cranberry mixture over the seasoned chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
  5. Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
  6. For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking.
  7. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve the chicken with the cranberry sauce drizzled over the top or on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for food safety.
  • Fresh or frozen cranberries work equally well. No need to thaw frozen cranberries before using.
  • For best flavor, use fresh orange zest and juice rather than bottled.
  • If you have time, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before baking for enhanced flavor.

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