Go Back
+ servings
Cranberry Glazed Chicken Thighs

Cranberry Glazed Chicken Thighs That Wow in Just 30 Minutes

Delicious Cranberry Glazed Chicken Thighs that are gluten-free and come together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Juicy and tender protein; substitute with bone-in thighs for richer flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning; use to draw out moisture.
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Ground Black Pepper Adds depth to the chicken’s taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil For searing the chicken; substitutions include avocado or canola oil.
For the Glaze
  • 2 tablespoons Minced Shallots Builds a savory foundation in the glaze.
  • 1 cup Fresh Cranberries Star ingredient for the glaze; rinse or use thawed from frozen.
  • 1/2 cup Water Helps soften cranberries for the glaze.
  • 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar Provides acidity and depth to the glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey Sweetens the glaze and balances tartness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger Adds warm spice; omit for milder taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Allspice Infuses subtle warmth; can be replaced with nutmeg.
For Garnish
  • 1 sprig Fresh Thyme Adds an herbal note as garnish.

Equipment

  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by taking the boneless skinless chicken thighs out of the refrigerator and patting them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and sauté for about 2 minutes or until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Add the fresh cranberries, water, apple cider vinegar, and honey into the skillet with the shallots. Stir and allow it to simmer for 5 to 8 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Once the cranberries have burst, gently mash them against the side of the skillet to release more juice. Add the ground ginger, allspice, and a pinch of salt, then stir well before transferring the glaze to a bowl.
  5. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium-high. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5 to 7 minutes until golden-brown.
  6. Carefully flip the chicken thighs over and continue to cook for another 4 to 6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. Spoon the reserved cranberry glaze generously over the chicken and garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Consider making the glaze a day in advance for quicker cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!