Save It Savory chicken thighs brushed with a tangy sweet cranberry and Dijon glaze always turn a simple dinner into something festive. Whether I am hosting a small holiday meal or just want to treat my family mid‑week this dish brings warmth and elegance to the table without much effort.
I first served these for a winter potluck and everyone kept asking for the recipe It has quickly become my go‑to way to jazz up chicken
Ingredients
- Bone in chicken thighs: for deep flavor and juicy texture Look for skin that looks healthy and meat that feels firm
- Canned cranberry sauce: gives the glaze its glossy shine and signature tang Whole berry or jellied both work but I prefer whole berry for texture
- Dijon mustard: blends sharpness and creaminess making the glaze pop Choose a high quality mustard for fuller flavor
- Fresh or dried rosemary: gives an aromatic edge Fresh is brighter but dried works in a pinch
- Salt and pepper: to balance and highlight the glaze Taste the cranberry sauce first and adjust as needed
Instructions
- Step one:
- Season the Chicken Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper Take a minute to really rub the seasoning in This ensures every bite tastes just right
- Step two:
- Mix the Glaze In a small bowl whisk the cranberry sauce Dijon mustard and rosemary until fully combined The glaze should look smooth and speckled with rosemary
- Step three:
- Glaze and Arrange Spread a thin layer of the glaze over each chicken thigh using a brush or the back of a spoon Place them skin side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment for easy cleanup
- Step four:
- Roast and Re glaze Roast the chicken for about twenty minutes then take the tray out and brush on more glaze to build color and shine Return to the oven and cook another fifteen to twenty minutes until a thermometer reads one hundred sixty five degrees and the skin looks glossy with some caramelized spots
Save It I love using rosemary from my garden in this dish Whenever I make cranberry glazed chicken my daughter begs to help whisk the glaze and it always brings us together in the kitchen
Storage tips
Cool leftovers fully then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days Reheat gently in the oven to keep the skin crisp For longer storage freeze cooked chicken in a freezer bag with extra glaze Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual
Ingredient substitutions
Use boneless thighs for quicker cooking but reduce roasting time by about ten minutes For extra bold flavor swap half the Dijon with whole grain mustard If rosemary is not your favorite try thyme for a different herbal note
Serving suggestions
Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for comfort Brighten the plate with simple roasted carrots or green beans This chicken is also great cold sliced over a fresh green salad for lunch
Cultural or historical context
Cranberry glaze draws on classic American holiday flavors bringing together tart berries and savory meats This kind of sweet and savory pairing goes back generations and is especially popular in fall and winter
Seasonal Adaptations
Use leftover homemade cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving for an extra special batch Make it in summer with fresh herbs from the garden Try serving with grilled corn or a light salad during warmer months
A few helpful notes
Skin on chicken crisps best if you let it air dry in the fridge for an hour before baking Brushing with glaze halfway through roasting amps up color and flavor Always check for doneness with a thermometer instead of guessing by looks
Success Stories
Friends gifted me local cranberry sauce and I tested this recipe to highlight the jar It turned boring chicken into a holiday hit A reader once told me she served these for her anniversary dinner because they looked and tasted so elegant
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can assemble the thighs and glaze ahead of time then freeze raw and ready to cook Defrost in the fridge and roast as usual for easy weeknight meals
Save It This cranberry glazed chicken is sure to impress with minimal effort Enjoy the festive flavors any time of year and savor leftovers if you have any
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used. Reduce roasting time by about 10 minutes and check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).
- → Can fresh cranberries replace the sauce?
Yes, simmer fresh cranberries with a bit of sugar and water until thickened for a homemade glaze base.
- → What side dishes pair well?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement the sweet-tangy glaze nicely.
- → Can this dish be made ahead?
You can prepare the glaze ahead. Roast the chicken just before serving for best results.
- → Is it possible to substitute rosemary?
Yes, try thyme or sage for a different flavor twist while still keeping the dish aromatic.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently to preserve juiciness.