Oven Baked Cranberry Chicken Recipe

This oven-baked cranberry chicken recipe is one of those easy family dinners that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, even though it comes together with just a handful of pantry staples. Juicy bone-in chicken breasts are baked in a rich, sweet-and-savory cranberry glaze made with whole berry cranberry sauce, orange juice, soy sauce, and olive oil for the ultimate cozy comfort food meal.

Perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or Sunday family suppers, this easy baked chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken with a glossy cranberry sauce everyone will want seconds of. The balance of tart cranberries and savory soy sauce creates an irresistible flavor that pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, or roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cranberry Chicken Recipe

• Only 4 main ingredients
• Quick and easy weeknight dinner
• Sweet and savory flavor combination
• Juicy, tender oven-baked chicken
• Family-friendly comfort food
• Great for holiday meals and meal prep
• Delicious with rice, potatoes, or vegetables

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
• 1 can whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a roasting pan or baking dish.
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them skin-side up in the baking dish.
3. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole berry cranberry sauce, orange juice, soy sauce, and olive oil until smooth.
5. Pour the cranberry sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
6. Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the chicken while baking.
7. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
9. Spoon extra cranberry glaze over the chicken and serve warm.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Chicken

This sweet and savory baked chicken recipe pairs perfectly with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles
• Steamed rice
• Roasted carrots
• Green beans
• Broccoli
• Wild rice
• Warm dinner rolls

Recipe Variations and Tips

• Add fresh orange zest for extra citrus flavor
• Use chicken thighs for extra juicy meat
• Swap orange juice with chicken broth for a more savory version
• Add garlic or red pepper flakes for more depth and spice
• Prepare ahead and refrigerate before baking for easy meal prep

Benefits of Cranberry Chicken

High in Protein

Chicken breasts provide lean protein that helps support muscle growth and keeps you feeling full longer.

Rich in Antioxidants

Cranberries contain antioxidants and vitamins that may help support immune health and overall wellness.

Easy Pantry Meal

This recipe uses simple pantry ingredients, making it perfect for busy nights when you need a quick dinner idea.

Family-Friendly Comfort Food

The sweet cranberry glaze makes this baked chicken recipe appealing to both kids and adults.