Crockpot meals are a lifesaver for busy days, and this Crockpot Cranberry Glazed Chicken is a perfect example of how hands-off cooking can still deliver deep, comforting flavor. Tender chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a beautifully balanced glaze of sweet-tart cranberries, warm spices, and umami-rich ingredients that soak into the meat as it simmers gently over a few hours.
This dish shines in both its simplicity and its sophistication. The cranberry sauce provides a bright, fruity base, while balsamic vinegar and brown sugar offer depth and a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness. Soy sauce adds richness and balance, and the blend of garlic, onion, paprika, and pepper brings gentle warmth to round out the flavor profile. It’s a fusion of familiar ingredients with an elevated twist.
ADVERTISEMENT
Adding fresh cranberries to the mix introduces bursts of tartness that contrast with the silky glaze, making each bite interesting and layered. Whether you use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, the slow cooking ensures incredibly juicy results. The chicken practically falls apart, infused with the glaze and incredibly tender.
This recipe is ideal for everything from a weeknight dinner to a holiday-inspired meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, wild rice, or roasted vegetables, and the leftover glaze can even be spooned over sides or crusty bread. A quick broil at the end brings a beautiful caramelization if you’re after crisp skin on bone-in thighs.
Servings and timing:
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 4 hours
- Total time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4–6 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (optional, for extra tartness)
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions:
See Next Page =>
