One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy and festive dish that will impress your family and friends, then you’ve come to the right place! One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is not only delicious, but it also fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas. This recipe perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the savory notes of rosemary, creating flavors that are simply irresistible.

What I love about this dish is its versatility. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special holiday gathering, this one-pan wonder fits right in. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Just imagine serving this beautiful chicken dish at your next family dinner or holiday celebration—it’s bound to be a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just one pan and minimal prep time, this recipe keeps cooking simple and stress-free.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet delightful, making it appealing for both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: The festive ingredients make it a fantastic choice for Christmas or Thanksgiving dinner.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, saving you time on busy days.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh cranberries and herbs, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Marinade

• ⅓ cup fresh cranberries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos (or soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves

For the Chicken

• ¼ cup dry white grape juice (or chicken broth)
• 6 medium bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 3 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
• Salt (to taste)

For Garnish

• ½ cup fresh cranberries
• 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Here are some fun ways to change things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

• Swap the protein: Consider using chicken breasts or even turkey thighs if you prefer a leaner cut.
• Add veggies: Toss in some seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
• Change the fruit: If cranberries aren’t your thing, try using pomegranate seeds or even sliced apples for a different twist.
• Herb alternatives: Fresh thyme or sage can be wonderful substitutes for rosemary if you’re looking for a different herbal note.

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, minced garlic, and rosemary leaves. This marinade not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist while cooking. It’s where all those delicious flavors will begin to meld together!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Massage the marinade into the chicken gently. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will help crisp up that skin beautifully while keeping the meat juicy inside.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down. Searing adds color and flavor through caramelization—don’t skip this step!

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

After searing for about 5 minutes until golden brown, flip the chicken over. Pour in dry white grape juice (or broth) around the chicken and sprinkle in additional fresh cranberries along with sprigs of rosemary on top.

Step 6: Bake Until Done

Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s cooked through while still being juicy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup before serving if desired. Let it rest briefly before serving so those juices can redistribute. Present it proudly on your table—this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is sure to steal the show!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Cooking this delightful dish is as easy as pie! Here are some tips to ensure your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and rosemary make a world of difference in flavor compared to their dried counterparts. They’ll add vibrant color and an aromatic quality that elevates the entire dish.

• Sear the chicken first: Start by searing the chicken thighs in olive oil to create a crispy skin. This adds depth of flavor and helps lock in moisture, resulting in juicier chicken.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, feel free to add more maple syrup. Balancing the sweetness with the tartness of cranberries will enhance the overall taste profile.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps redistribute juices throughout the meat, making each bite tender and juicy.

• Experiment with herbs: While rosemary pairs beautifully with cranberries, don’t hesitate to try other herbs like thyme or sage for a different twist on flavors that complement the dish well.

How to Serve One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Presenting your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken can be just as fun as cooking it! Here are some creative ways to serve this festive dish that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors.
• Orange zest: Grating a bit of orange peel over the top brightens the dish with citrus notes, enhancing its wintery vibe.
• Cranberry sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce can amplify the berry flavor and provide a beautiful contrast against the chicken’s golden skin.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the savory notes of the chicken while soaking up all those delicious juices.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crunchy veggies bring a nutty flavor when roasted, adding both texture and nutrition alongside your main dish.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with your flavorful main course.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for a festive meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every moment of sharing this delicious One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken with your loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is not only delicious but also great for meal prep! You can easily make this dish ahead of time, ensuring you have a flavorful meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Be sure to include any sauce and cranberries when storing for extra flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the chicken cool completely first.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken that might help you out!

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs can be used, but they may cook faster than bone-in thighs. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

What sides pair well with One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The bright flavors complement a variety of side dishes beautifully!

How do I ensure my One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken stays juicy?

To keep your chicken juicy, make sure not to overcook it. Using a meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! Its vibrant flavors and festive aroma make it a wonderful addition to any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking, and enjoy!