Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts. They’ll cook faster, so check for tenderness around the 4-hour mark to avoid drying out. Thighs stay juicier, but both work beautifully with this cranberry glaze.

Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

Absolutely. If you have leftover homemade cranberry sauce, it adds a deeper flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s not overly sweet so it doesn’t overpower the glaze.

How do I thicken the glaze if it’s too runny?

Remove the chicken once cooked and let the sauce simmer uncovered in the crockpot for 10–15 minutes, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water. The sauce will thicken as it cools slightly.

Can I make Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the chicken, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

What sides go best with this chicken?

Creamy mashed potatoes, buttered rice, roasted carrots, or green beans pair perfectly. The sweet and savory glaze complements simple, buttery side dishes best.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it with sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly to maintain the glaze’s texture.

Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken – Festive, Easy & Flavorful

Description

This Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken is a festive slow-cooker favorite made with tender chicken, tangy cranberry sauce, and sweet honey-orange glaze. Easy to prepare, perfectly glossy, and ideal for holidays or cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

1 cup whole cranberry sauce

½ cup orange juice

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt

Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Place the chicken in the bottom of your crockpot.

2. In a bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce, orange juice, honey, soy sauce, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Pour the glaze mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.

4. Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours (or HIGH for 2½–3 hours), until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

5. For a caramelized finish, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet, spoon sauce over the top, and broil for 2–3 minutes.

6. Garnish with fresh thyme and extra cranberries before serving.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juicier results, or chicken breasts for a leaner option.

Substitute balsamic vinegar for soy sauce for a deeper flavor twist.

Add red pepper flakes for a mild heat balance.

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 285
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 510mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 31g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: crockpot cranberry glazed chicken, slow cooker chicken, holiday chicken recipe, sweet and savory chicken, festive crockpot meals