Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken – A Holiday-Worthy Dinner Dish

🎉 Introduction

Looking for the perfect holiday dinner recipe that’s both comforting and impressive? This Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken is exactly that — tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy cranberry glaze that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the ultimate balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, and it looks stunning on any table.

The magic lies in the glaze — made with cranberries, a touch of brown sugar, and aromatic herbs — creating a sauce that clings beautifully to golden-seared chicken. Every bite delivers a pop of brightness balanced by rich, savory undertones.

Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving feast, a cozy Christmas dinner, or a special fall meal, this Cranberry Glazed Chicken will make your guests think you spent hours in the kitchen — even though it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. 🍂✨

🧰 Equipment Needed

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this deliciously festive chicken dish:

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Saucepan (for the cranberry glaze)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula
• Whisk
• Cutting board and knife
• Serving platter

🛒 Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken:

🍗 Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

🍒 Cranberry Glaze

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice, fresh
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional for color)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (optional but recommended)

🌿 Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh cranberries and herbs for serving

👩‍🍳 Directions

Step 1
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside on a plate.

Step 3
In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, brown sugar, chicken broth, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.

Step 4
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5
Use the back of a spoon to mash some of the cranberries, leaving a few whole for texture. The sauce should be glossy and syrupy.

Step 6
Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the cranberry glaze over the top, spreading it evenly.

Step 7
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the chicken simmer in the glaze for 5–8 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse and the sauce to thicken further.

Step 8
Check that the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).

Step 9
Spoon extra glaze over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs or cranberries for a festive touch.

Step 10
Serve warm with your favorite sides — mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or wild rice all pair beautifully with this dish.

🍽️ Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: ~35 minutes

Perfect for holiday dinners, family meals, or festive gatherings.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
– Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
– Freeze cooked chicken (without garnish) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tip: The glaze thickens in the fridge, so reheat slowly to bring it back to silky perfection.

🥄 Variations

Make your Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken your own with these tasty twists:

• Spicy Cranberry Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a touch of heat.
• Honey Cranberry Glaze: Stir in 1 tbsp honey for added sweetness and shine.
• Orange Infusion: Replace lemon juice with orange juice and add a little zest for citrus flair.
• Garlic Butter Finish: Whisk 1 tbsp butter into the glaze at the end for a richer sauce.
• Cranberry Herb Mix: Add chopped parsley or basil for a garden-fresh twist.
• Balsamic Touch: A drizzle of balsamic glaze (non-alcoholic) gives depth and tang.
• Cranberry BBQ: Mix the glaze with a spoonful of BBQ sauce for a smoky version.
• Vegetarian Version: Use the same glaze over roasted cauliflower steaks or tofu.
• Cranberry Chicken Thighs: Substitute thighs for extra juicy, flavorful meat.
• Coconut Cream Glaze: Add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical, creamy variation.

❓ 10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cranberries?
   Yes! Frozen cranberries work perfectly — no need to thaw before cooking.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Absolutely! Thighs stay extra juicy and soak up the glaze beautifully.
3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
   Yes — prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before using.
4. Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?
   Definitely. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, then brush with glaze.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
6. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes — double both the glaze and chicken quantities for larger gatherings.
7. How do I thicken the glaze if it’s too thin?
   Simmer longer or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.
8. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Yes — this recipe is naturally dairy-free when made as listed.
9. Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
   Yes — simply warm it in the cranberry glaze for 10 minutes until heated through.
10. What sides go best with this dish?
    Serve with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, roasted root vegetables, or a fresh salad.

🏁 Conclusion

This Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken is everything a festive main dish should be — flavorful, vibrant, and effortlessly elegant. The tangy-sweet cranberry glaze perfectly complements the juicy chicken, creating a meal that feels special enough for the holidays yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Each bite offers a harmony of textures and flavors — the tender chicken, the sticky glaze, and the herbaceous aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a crisp autumn evening, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.

So grab your skillet and cranberries, and treat yourself to a holiday-worthy chicken dinner that’s sweet, savory, and absolutely unforgettable.

Adam

Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken – A Holiday-Worthy Dinner Dish

Looking for the perfect holiday dinner recipe that’s both comforting and impressive? This Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken is exactly that — tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy cranberry glaze that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the ultimate balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, and it looks stunning on any table. The magic lies in the glaze — made with cranberries, a touch of brown sugar, and aromatic herbs — creating a sauce that clings beautifully to golden-seared chicken. Every bite delivers a pop of brightness balanced by rich, savory undertones. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving feast, a cozy Christmas dinner, or a special fall meal, this Cranberry Glazed Chicken will make your guests think you spent hours in the kitchen — even though it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. 🍂✨

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• Here’s everything you’ll need to make Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken:

🍗 Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

🍒 Cranberry Glaze

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice fresh
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika optional for color
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or ½ tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary chopped (optional but recommended)

🌿 Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh cranberries and herbs for serving

Equipment

• Here’s everything you’ll need to create this deliciously festive chicken dish:
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Saucepan (for the cranberry glaze)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula
• Whisk
• Cutting board and knife
• Serving platter

Method

 

Step 1

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside on a plate.

Step 3

1. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, brown sugar, chicken broth, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.

Step 4

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5

1. Use the back of a spoon to mash some of the cranberries, leaving a few whole for texture. The sauce should be glossy and syrupy.

Step 6

1. Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the cranberry glaze over the top, spreading it evenly.

Step 7

1. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the chicken simmer in the glaze for 5–8 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse and the sauce to thicken further.

Step 8

1. Check that the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).

Step 9

1. Spoon extra glaze over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs or cranberries for a festive touch.

Step 10

1. Serve warm with your favorite sides — mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or wild rice all pair beautifully with this dish.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
– Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
– Freeze cooked chicken (without garnish) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tip: The glaze thickens in the fridge, so reheat slowly to bring it back to silky perfection.

🥄 Variations

Make your Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken your own with these tasty twists:

Spicy Cranberry Glaze: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a touch of heat.

Honey Cranberry Glaze: Stir in 1 tbsp honey for added sweetness and shine.

Orange Infusion: Replace lemon juice with orange juice and add a little zest for citrus flair.

Garlic Butter Finish: Whisk 1 tbsp butter into the glaze at the end for a richer sauce.

Cranberry Herb Mix: Add chopped parsley or basil for a garden-fresh twist.

Balsamic Touch: A drizzle of balsamic glaze (non-alcoholic) gives depth and tang.

Cranberry BBQ: Mix the glaze with a spoonful of BBQ sauce for a smoky version.

Vegetarian Version: Use the same glaze over roasted cauliflower steaks or tofu.

Cranberry Chicken Thighs: Substitute thighs for extra juicy, flavorful meat.

Coconut Cream Glaze: Add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical, creamy variation.

❓ 10 FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work perfectly — no need to thaw before cooking.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs stay extra juicy and soak up the glaze beautifully.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes — prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before using.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?
Definitely. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, then brush with glaze.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes — double both the glaze and chicken quantities for larger gatherings.

How do I thicken the glaze if it’s too thin?
Simmer longer or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — this recipe is naturally dairy-free when made as listed.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes — simply warm it in the cranberry glaze for 10 minutes until heated through.

What sides go best with this dish?
Serve with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, roasted root vegetables, or a fresh salad.

🏁 Conclusion

This Sweet and Savory Cranberry Glazed Chicken is everything a festive main dish should be — flavorful, vibrant, and effortlessly elegant. The tangy-sweet cranberry glaze perfectly complements the juicy chicken, creating a meal that feels special enough for the holidays yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Each bite offers a harmony of textures and flavors — the tender chicken, the sticky glaze, and the herbaceous aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a crisp autumn evening, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.

So grab your skillet and cranberries, and treat yourself to a holiday-worthy chicken dinner that’s sweet, savory, and absolutely unforgettable.