Description
Cranberry Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Ingredients
4 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Make the Glaze: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in balsamic vinegar, honey, cranberries, and rosemary. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the cranberries begin to burst and the glaze thickens slightly.
Bake the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the glaze over each piece. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly.
Garnish & Serve: Top with extra cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 310 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Cranberry Balsamic Glazed Chicken every time. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This ensures a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper. In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken, skin-side down if using skin-on, and sear without moving for 3-4 minutes to develop a deep golden-brown crust. Flip and sear the other side. Remove the chicken to a plate; it will finish cooking in the oven.
For the glaze, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits. This is key for depth of flavor. Add the honey, cranberries, and chopped rosemary. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 3-4 minutes. The cranberries will soften and burst, and the mixture will reduce to a syrupy consistency.
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the glaze. Spoon the glaze over the top of each piece. Carefully transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is thick and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This festive chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or wild rice to soak up the delicious glaze. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus complement the sweet and tangy flavors. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette offers a fresh, peppery contrast. For a special holiday presentation, garnish with a few extra fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs.
How-to Summary
In summary: Season and sear chicken thighs until golden. Remove. In the same pan, sauté garlic, then add vinegar, honey, cranberries, and rosemary to create a glaze. Return chicken to the skillet, coat with glaze, and bake at 400°F until cooked through. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts? Yes, but reduce the searing time to 2-3 minutes per side and check for doneness earlier, as breasts cook faster and can dry out.
My glaze is too thin. How can I thicken it? After removing the cooked chicken, simmer the glaze on the stovetop for a few extra minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. A cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) can also be whisked in.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Sear the chicken and complete the baking step just before serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for fresh rosemary? Dried rosemary can be used (use 1/3 tsp), or try fresh thyme or sage for a different herbal note.
Is there a substitute for balsamic vinegar? A combination of red wine vinegar and a teaspoon of sugar can work in a pinch, but it will lack the characteristic depth of balsamic.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken, as this steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust. Do not skip deglazing the pan with the balsamic vinegar; those browned bits are essential flavor. Be careful not to over-reduce the glaze before baking, as it can thicken too much and burn in the oven. Finally, always use an oven-safe skillet to safely transition from stovetop to oven.
Conclusion
Cranberry Balsamic Glazed Chicken is an elegant yet straightforward dish that masterfully balances sweet, tart, and savory flavors. Perfect for a festive holiday centerpiece or a special weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers impressive results with minimal effort. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a truly memorable meal. The vibrant glaze and tender chicken are sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.