Sweet & Tangy Cranberry Orange Roasted Chicken

Introduction

When I first made this Sweet & Tangy Cranberry Orange Roasted Chicken, I knew I had stumbled upon a winning recipe. The combination of sweet cranberries, zesty orange, and savory chicken is simply irresistible. My family was delighted by the burst of flavors in every bite, and it quickly became a regular addition to our dinner table. The cranberries not only provide a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the honey but also give the chicken a beautiful, festive look. This dish is perfect for holiday meals, special occasions, or even just a cozy weeknight dinner. The marinated chicken stays tender and juicy, while the crispy skin adds a delightful texture. It’s one of those meals that feels both indulgent and refreshing at the same time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• 4-5 chicken thighs or breasts, skin-on
• ½ cup fresh cranberries
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Marinade:

• ¼ cup fresh cranberries
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large orange, zested and juiced
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a food processor, combine the marinade ingredients: cranberries, brown sugar, olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, garlic, orange zest, orange juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag, container, or deep dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the container, and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. For best results, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to fully infuse into the chicken.
3. Bake the Chicken:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch roasting pan, then arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken and sprinkle the additional ½ cup of fresh cranberries around the chicken to add color and flavor.
4. Finish and Crisp the Chicken:
   Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until it is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon honey with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Brush this mixture over the chicken skin, then broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy, golden finish. Be sure to watch closely during broiling to avoid burning.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with extra orange zest and fresh cranberries. Serve with the roasted cranberries for a burst of sweet-tart flavor.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 350-400
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including marinating time)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes to complement the sweetness and tanginess of the chicken.
• Pair with a simple salad of mixed greens and citrus slices for a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
• For a heartier meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes or rice pilaf to soak up the delicious marinade.
• Garnish with extra orange zest or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra burst of flavor.
• Add a drizzle of the leftover pan juices for extra moisture and flavor when serving the chicken.

Additional Tips

1. Use Chicken Thighs for More Flavor: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making them a great choice for this recipe.
2. Marinate Longer: While 1 hour is sufficient, marinating the chicken overnight will allow the flavors to penetrate more deeply, creating a richer taste.
3. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the honey or brown sugar in the marinade to suit your taste.
4. Balsamic Vinegar Substitute: If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, though the flavor will be slightly different.
5. Make it Spicy: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Recipe Variations

• Cranberry-Orange Glazed Chicken: If you prefer a glaze, cook the marinade on the stove over medium heat until it thickens, then drizzle over the baked chicken for a more intense flavor.
• Grilled Chicken Version: Marinate the chicken and grill it for a smoky version of this recipe. The grill marks add depth to the overall flavor.
• Crispy Chicken Wings: Use chicken wings instead of breasts or thighs for a fun, finger-food variation that’s perfect for parties or game days.
• Vegan Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative, using the marinade to infuse the flavors.
• Spicy Cranberry Orange Chicken: Add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the cranberries and honey.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Dinner: Serve this dish as the centerpiece for your holiday meal. It’s festive and full of vibrant flavors that will impress your guests.
• Family Weeknight Meal: Quick and easy to prepare, this chicken recipe is great for busy weeknights when you want something both flavorful and satisfying.
• Dinner Party: The bright colors and delicious aroma of this dish make it perfect for dinner parties. Serve it with a selection of roasted vegetables and a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Picnic or Potluck: Serve this dish cold or at room temperature for a flavorful addition to any outdoor gathering or potluck.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months before cooking. Just place the chicken in a zip-top bag with the marinade and store it in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Storage: Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet on medium heat, adding some of the pan juices for added moisture.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of skin-on?
   Yes, boneless breasts work fine, but you may need to adjust the cooking time since they cook faster than bone-in chicken.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor, or even prepare the chicken up to 2 days in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
3. What can I substitute for the cranberries in the marinade?
   You can substitute dried cranberries or fresh pomegranate seeds if cranberries are unavailable.
4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
   Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
5. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.
6. How do I prevent the chicken skin from burning?
   Keep an eye on the chicken during broiling, as the skin can brown quickly. It’s best to broil for just 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
7. Can I use this marinade for other meats?
   Absolutely! This marinade works great with pork chops, turkey, or even lamb.
8. Can I serve this dish with mashed potatoes?
   Yes, mashed potatoes would pair wonderfully with the sweet and tangy chicken, helping to balance the flavors.
9. What other vegetables can I roast with the chicken?
   Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes all pair wonderfully with this chicken.
10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the balsamic vinegar you use is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Sweet & Tangy Cranberry Orange Roasted Chicken is a deliciously vibrant dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. The combination of fresh cranberries, honey, and

orange zest creates a marinade that not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also gives it a beautiful appearance. Whether you’re preparing it for a special holiday dinner or just a regular weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The crispy skin and juicy meat, paired with roasted cranberries and fresh orange zest, make for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Print