Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most mouthwatering chicken dish that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary! Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken thighs bathed in a luxurious sauce that perfectly balances the tangy sweetness of orange and cranberries with a rich balsamic depth. This Orange Cranberry Balsamic Chicken Thighs recipe is not just a meal - it's a culinary experience that will have your family and guests begging for seconds, and possibly even licking their plates clean!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup cranberries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5-6 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side to develop color.
- In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice and balsamic vinegar. Pour the liquid mixture over the chicken thighs in the skillet.
- Scatter fresh cranberries around the chicken thighs in the skillet, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. The sauce will naturally thicken during this time.
- Serve chicken thighs with the cranberry balsamic sauce spooned over the top, garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden skin that will make your mouth water.
- Use a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe skillet for the best heat distribution and to create those beautiful caramelized edges.
- Don't rush the searing process - letting the chicken skin develop a golden-brown color will add incredible depth of flavor.
- Use fresh cranberries if possible, as they'll provide a brighter, more vibrant taste and texture to the sauce.
- Check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce while roasting.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the liquid on the stovetop for a few minutes after removing the chicken from the oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
