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Cranberry Glazed Chicken Thighs

Cranberry Glazed Chicken Thighs: A Sweet & Savory Delight

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Cranberry Glazed Chicken Thighs are a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a comforting dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 thighs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Choose juicy thighs for even cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Ground Black Pepper Use freshly ground for best results.
  • 1 tablespoon Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Used for searing the chicken.
For the Glaze
  • 1 medium Minced Shallot Can replace with finely chopped onion.
  • 2 cups Fresh Cranberries Choose firm, bright red cranberries or use thawed frozen ones.
  • 0.5 cups Water Helps soften the cranberries.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Adds necessary acidity.
  • 0.5 cups Honey Can substitute with maple syrup or brown sugar.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger Can use ground cinnamon or omit for milder flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Allspice Can substitute with nutmeg or cloves.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Chopped for garnishing.

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by patting the boneless skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Allow the seasoned chicken to rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and sauté for about 2 minutes until translucent. Then, introduce the fresh cranberries, water, apple cider vinegar, and honey to the skillet. Let this simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the glaze thickens to a syrupy consistency.
  3. Once the cranberries have burst, use a fork or a potato masher to lightly mash them in the skillet. Stir in the ground ginger, allspice, and additional salt to taste. Transfer the cranberry glaze to a bowl and set aside.
  4. Return the cleaned skillet to the heat and add another tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet, searing them for 5 to 7 minutes until they achieve a golden-brown color. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. Generously ladle the glaze over the chicken thighs. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1thighCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, make the cranberry glaze up to 24 hours beforehand and refrigerate. This will deepen the flavors and save you time on busy weeknights.

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