Oven-Baked 4-Ingredient Cranberry Chicken

This easy Oven-Baked Cranberry Chicken is a simple one-pan dinner
that delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze.
Made with just a handful of pantry staples, it’s perfect for busy weeknights,
holiday dinners, or whenever you need an effortless family meal.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts (about 2½–3 pounds)
- 1 can (14–16 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- ½ cup orange juice (or chicken broth)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a roasting pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and arrange them skin-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, orange juice, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined.
- Pour the cranberry mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated.
- Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, basting once or twice with the pan juices during cooking.
- Cook until the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Spoon the rich cranberry sauce over each chicken breast and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Buttered rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Egg noodles
- Roasted green beans
- Steamed broccoli
- Wild rice
- Roasted carrots
- Fresh green salad
- Warm dinner rolls
Tips & Variations
- Add 1 teaspoon of fresh orange zest for extra citrus flavor.
- Replace orange juice with chicken broth for a more savory sauce.
- Add one minced garlic clove for extra depth.
- Stir in ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted; bake for 45–55 minutes.
- Marinate the chicken in the cranberry sauce for up to 8 hours before baking.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently with extra sauce to keep the chicken moist.
