Mediterranean Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake

 

Mediterranean Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake is a perfect balance of savory chicken, sweet honey, and tart cranberries, all baked together in a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish. The chicken becomes tender as it bakes in a honey and cranberry glaze, and the addition of fresh herbs like oregano and thyme give it that Mediterranean punch. The dish is easy to prepare, looks impressive, and is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the classic Mediterranean ingredients you love, such as olive oil, garlic, and oregano, with a sweet and tangy glaze of honey and cranberries. It’s incredibly simple to make and doesn’t require a lot of time or effort. The result is a meal that’s not only delicious but also vibrant and visually appealing. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a dish that’s healthy, hearty, and full of flavor!

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Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup honey (preferably local honey for flavor)
• 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh if available)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, for added Mediterranean flavor)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Season generously with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Set aside to allow the chicken to absorb the seasonings.
3. Prepare the Honey-Cranberry Glaze:
   In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir in the cranberries, ensuring they’re well mixed into the glaze.
4. Pour the Glaze Over the Chicken:
   Pour the honey-cranberry mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure the cranberries are evenly spread out.
5. Bake the Chicken:
   Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the chicken moist during baking. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
6. Finish the Dish:
   Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the glaze to thicken and caramelize slightly.
7. Optional Feta Cheese:
   If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken during the last 2 minutes of baking. Allow it to melt into the dish, adding a creamy contrast to the sweet and savory flavors.
8. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and serve hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple Greek salad.

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Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: Around 45 minutes (including extra time for cooling)

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Variations

You can personalize this recipe to suit your preferences or make it unique by adding:

• Feta or Goat Cheese: Crumble over the chicken for extra creaminess and a bit of tang.
• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of lemon or orange to the glaze for an extra burst of fresh citrus flavor.
• Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or almonds over the chicken for added crunch and texture.
• Fresh Cranberries: If you can find fresh cranberries, use them instead of dried for an even more vibrant and tart glaze.

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Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• Microwave: Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

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FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure that the juices run clear when you cut into the chicken.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the glaze for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator before baking. This will help the chicken absorb more flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! If you prefer chicken thighs, simply adjust the cooking time. Bone-in, skin-on thighs may take a bit longer to cook — about 35-40 minutes.

Can I make this dish without feta cheese?

Yes, you can skip the feta cheese if you prefer. It’s optional but adds a nice creamy, salty contrast to the sweet glaze.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts and glaze in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

What can I serve with this Mediterranean chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice pilaf, or a Greek salad. You can also serve it with some pita bread to scoop up any extra glaze!

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Conclusion

The Mediterranean Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake brings together the best of savory and sweet in a simple, Mediterranean-inspired dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, it’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. The honey cranberry glaze and Mediterranean herbs create a perfect harmony of tastes, and the addition of feta adds richness and creaminess. Try it today and enjoy the Mediterranean magic in your kitchen!

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