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Glazed Cranberry Chicken Thighs Recipe

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4.4 from 40 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Glazed Cranberry Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy bone-in chicken thighs roasted to perfection with a flavorful herb butter rub under the skin and a glossy, sweet-tart cranberry glaze poured over the top. The chicken is seasoned with thyme, sage, and classic spices, while the cranberry sauce is enriched with sautéed onions and chicken broth for depth of flavor. Perfect for an elegant family dinner or special occasion, this dish balances savory and fruity notes beautifully.

Ingredients

Herb Butter Rub

  • 5 tablespoons butter (divided, softened)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme (divided)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (divided, plus more for seasoning)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (divided, plus more for seasoning)

Chicken

  • 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin on)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

Cranberry Glaze

  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for roasting the chicken.
  2. Make Herb Butter Rub: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of softened butter, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper. Mix well to create the herb butter.
  3. Apply Butter Under Skin: Gently lift the skin of each chicken thigh and evenly spread the herb butter mixture underneath the skin, ensuring the flavors get directly into the meat.
  4. Prepare Chicken for Roasting: Place the buttered chicken thighs skin side up on a rimmed baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil and season generously with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Roast Chicken: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before serving to retain its juices.
  6. Sauté Onions: While the chicken roasts, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and tender, about 8 minutes.
  7. Add Herbs: Stir in the dried sage and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Cook the mixture for about 1 more minute to release the aromas of the herbs.
  8. Simmer Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to concentrate. Then strain the mixture to remove solids and return the clear broth to the saucepan.
  9. Add Cranberries and Sugar: Add the cranberries and sugar to the broth. Bring everything to a boil, letting the cranberries burst and cook down for about 5 to 8 minutes to create a vibrant sauce.
  10. Thicken Glaze: Whisk in the cornstarch mixed with water to the cranberry sauce. Return the mixture to a boil and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
  11. Season Glaze and Serve: Remove the glaze from heat. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Spoon the warm cranberry glaze over the rested roasted chicken thighs just before serving for a deliciously glossy finish.

Notes

  • For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as the skin helps keep the meat juicy during roasting.
  • You can use fresh or frozen cranberries interchangeably in the glaze.
  • Allowing the chicken to rest after roasting ensures it stays moist and tender.
  • The glaze can be prepared ahead and gently reheated before serving.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/glazed-cranberry-chicken-thighs-recipe/