Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs is the kind of dish that feels both comforting and festive at the same time. Juicy, oven-baked chicken thighs are coated in a bright citrus glaze made with fresh orange juice, honey, and garlic, then finished with bursts of tart cranberries that balance the sweetness beautifully. It’s an easy dinner that looks impressive enough for guests but simple enough for a cozy weeknight meal, especially when you want something flavorful without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold sweet-and-tangy flavor from oranges and cranberries
• Beginner-friendly with simple prep and baking
• Juicy, tender chicken with crispy golden skin
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions
• Pairs well with many sides for an easy complete meal

Ingredients

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (8) – Stay juicy and flavorful while baking and crisp beautifully in the oven.
• Fresh cranberries (1 cup) – Add tart pops of flavor and festive color.
• Freshly squeezed orange juice (1 cup) – Creates a bright, citrusy base for the sauce.
• Orange zest (from 1 orange) – Intensifies the fresh orange flavor.
• Honey (¼ cup) – Balances the tart cranberries with natural sweetness.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Adds savory depth to the citrus glaze.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp) – Helps coat the chicken and promotes even browning.
• Soy sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds subtle umami and balances the sweetness.
• Salt (1 tsp) & black pepper (½ tsp) – Essential seasoning for well-rounded flavor.
• Dried thyme (1 tsp) – Adds earthy herbal notes that complement the citrus.
• Fresh rosemary (optional garnish) – Adds aroma and a festive finish.

How to Make Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs

Prepare the Oven and Sauce

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

Arrange the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish in a single layer. Pour the orange-honey mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each thigh is well coated.

Add Cranberries and Seasoning

Scatter the fresh cranberries around and over the chicken. Sprinkle the dried thyme evenly on top.

Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This helps the chicken cook through while staying juicy.

Uncover and Finish Baking

Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin turns golden and slightly crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Optional Broil and Rest

For extra color, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired before serving.

Tips for Success

• Pat the chicken skin dry before baking for crispier results.
• Use fresh orange juice for the brightest flavor.
• Keep an eye on the cranberries during broiling to prevent burning.
• Let the chicken rest briefly so the juices redistribute.

Equipment Needed

• Oven
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer

Recipe Variations

• Boneless option: Use boneless, skinless thighs and reduce baking time slightly.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Herb swap: Replace thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herbal note.
• Low-sugar version: Reduce honey and add extra orange zest for flavor without extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs with fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the citrus sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad make excellent sides to balance the richness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but breasts cook faster and may be less juicy, so reduce the baking time and monitor closely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep the sauce and chicken ahead, then bake fresh for best results.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use frozen cranberries? Yes, add them directly without thawing.
What if I don’t have fresh oranges? Bottled orange juice works, but fresh juice and zest provide the best flavor.

Final Thoughts

Baked Orange Cranberry Chicken Thighs is a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that feels special without being complicated. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or just want a cozy homemade dinner, this recipe delivers comfort and brightness in every bite. Give it a try and enjoy how effortlessly elegant oven-baked chicken can be.

Print