Name: Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; Zest of 1 orange; 1/4 cup honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Optional: fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

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introduction

This recipe gives a sweet and tart taste that fits many meals. It mixes orange and cranberry with juicy chicken thighs. If you like orange chicken, you may also like a simple orange chicken recipe for more ideas.

why make this recipe

You can make this dish for a weeknight meal or for a small dinner with friends. The sauce is bright and warm, and the cranberries add a fresh bite. If you want quick orange ideas, look at fast orange chicken ideas for a quick twist.

how to make Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Work clean and move step by step. You will mix the sauce, coat the thighs, add cranberries, and bake. The oven cooks the chicken inside and makes the skin crisp. For a similar bake method, you can read how others roast chicken like in a baked ranch chicken guide.

Ingredients :

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup fresh cranberries
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
1/4 cup honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Optional: fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium bowl, combine orange juice, zest, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until the honey is fully dissolved.
Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish in a single layer.
Pour the orange and honey mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring the thighs are well-coated.
Scatter fresh cranberries around and over the chicken.
Sprinkle dried thyme evenly over the chicken.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
If the chicken needs extra color, switch the oven to broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
Optionally, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving.

how to serve Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Serve the thighs with simple sides like rice or roasted veg. A green salad works well to add fresh crunch. For side ideas that go with baked chicken, see this list of oven baked chicken sides and ideas.

how to store Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Cool the chicken to room temp, but do not leave it out more than two hours. Put it in an airtight box and keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, place in a freezer bag and use in 2 to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before you reheat.

tips to make Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Pat the skin dry with a paper towel to help it get crisp.
Use fresh orange juice for the best taste.
Taste the sauce before you pour it on; add a bit more honey or salt if you like.
If you want a glaze that is thicker, boil the sauce for a few minutes before you use it. For more roast and orange tips, read roasted orange chicken tips.

variation (if any)

Make this with boneless chicken thighs for a faster cook time.
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a deeper tang.
Swap cranberries for pomegranate seeds when in season for a fresh crunch.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cranberries?
A: Yes. Use frozen cranberries without thawing. They will cook fine in the oven.

Q: Can I make this with chicken breasts?
A: You can, but breasts can dry out. Watch the time and use a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make the sauce one day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Pour it on when you bake.

Q: Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
A: Cover for the first part to keep the meat moist. Remove the cover to let the skin brown.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until warm. You can also reheat in a skillet on low heat.