Cranberry and Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs
The following ingredients are needed to prepare Cranberry and Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
Directions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Cranberry and Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs:
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Step 3: Flip the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, add cranberries, orange juice, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, orange zest, garlic, and thyme. Stir and bring to a simmer for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened and cranberries begin to burst.
- Step 5: Return chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and spoon some of the glaze over the top.
- Step 6: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
- Step 7: Spoon extra glaze over the chicken before serving. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but the cooking time may be shorter. Monitor the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.
2. What can I serve alongside this dish?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, couscous, or mashed sweet potatoes for a complete meal.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken thighs with glaze. Allow the dish to cool, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
5. What can I use to replace honey for a lower sugar option?
You could use a sugar substitute or maple syrup as an alternative to honey while making adjustments to the overall sweetness as preferred.
Conclusion
Cranberry and Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs is a fantastic dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any meal. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both the seasoned cook and the culinary novice. Impress your family and friends with this vibrant dish that will surely become a staple in your home!
