One of the dozens of things I didn’t know about Wisconsin when Ben coerced me to move here was that, for the past 20 years, Wisconsin has led the nation in cranberry production. Sure, the Massachusetts bogs of cranberry juice commercial fame are picturesque, but it’s plaid-clad Wisconsin that grows the largest haul. So, in addition to the state’s fabulous selection of cheese and beer, Wisconsin can boast cranberries too, and I’m glad. These tart little jewels give me happy holiday tingles and provide much-needed brightness on winter evenings when the sun sets at 4:30. Why does daylight savings time need to end again?
Why I Love This Cranberry Chicken
Fresh cranberries receive the most attention at Thanksgiving in the form of cranberry sauce. (Some free advice: skip the can and make this homemade Cranberry Orange Sauce instead). Cranberry chicken, however, proves that fresh cranberries also deserve a spot in your weeknight dinner rotation all fall and winter long.
Juicy chicken thighs coated with a sticky cranberry glaze are sweet, tangy, and bursting with color (and flavor)Forget about roasting a turkey or whole chicken for hours. This holiday-worthy recipe is ready in 30 minutes.PLUS, this one-pan chicken recipe offers easy preparation and clean-up.
I’d call that a win!
How to Make Cranberry Chicken
Chicken thighs seared until golden and crispy on the outside and sweet and juicy on the inside are slathered in a sweet, sticky, savory glaze made from fresh cranberries.
The Ingredients
Chicken Thighs. Boneless skinless thighs cook quickly and remain moist and tender when seared over high heat.Cranberries. These little red jewels are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber they’re one superfood I cannot get enough of during the holidays.Shallots. Adds some savory onion flavor and zip to the sauce.Honey. Cuts through the tart cranberries and balances the vinegar.
Apple Cider Vinegar. Helps break down the cranberries and adds additional acidity.Ginger. For some bite that compliments that tart cranberries and sweet honey.Allspice. A warm earthy spice that deeply flavors the cranberry glaze.Thyme. Finishes the dish with a savory woodsy aroma and flavor.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Leftovers may be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To Freeze. Freeze the chicken and cranberry sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before warming.To Reheat. Warm in the microwave, in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, or a slow cooker until heated through. You may need to add a few tablespoons of water to the sauce to rehydrate it before heating.
What to Serve with Cranberry Chicken
Rice. To make the meal complete, I served our chicken with a side of wild rice. This Crockpot Wild Rice Stuffing would be tasty.Vegetables. Our favorite Crock Pot Baked Potatoes, Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, or crispy Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts are all delicious options.Salad. Winter Salad with Kale would be scrumptious with this chicken too.
Another title Wisconsin holds? The state with the most cranberry chicken devoured under one roof (by yours truly).
