Juicy chicken baked in a sweet-tart cranberry orange glaze with hints of garlic and rosemary — perfect for festive meals or easy weeknight dinners.
4–6 bone-in chicken thighs (or 4 boneless breasts/thighs)
Salt, pepper, paprika (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 shallot, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
½ cup orange juice
1 tbsp orange zest
2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
½ cup chicken stock
1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
1 tbsp butter (for finishing)
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Season chicken and sear in oil until browned. Remove from pan.
Sauté shallots and garlic in same pan.
Add cranberries, orange juice, zest, syrup, stock, and herbs. Simmer 5–7 minutes.
Return chicken to pan, spoon glaze over. Bake for 20–25 minutes.
Remove chicken. Simmer glaze and whisk in butter until glossy.
Spoon sauce over chicken to serve.
Use boneless cuts for faster cooking. Add chili flakes for heat or swap maple syrup for balsamic for a tangier glaze.