Oven-Baked 4-Ingredient Cranberry Chicken

 

Oven-Baked 4-Ingredient Cranberry Chicken

Oven-Baked 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

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

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a roasting pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and arrange them skin-side up in the prepared baking dish.
  3. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, orange juice, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined.
  5. Pour the cranberry mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated.
  6. Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, basting once or twice with the pan juices during cooking.
  7. Cook until the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  9. 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.

 

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