One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, let me introduce you to my favorite, One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken. This recipe has become a cherished staple in my kitchen, especially during the bustling winter months. The sweet-tart cranberries paired with fragrant rosemary create a warm, inviting aroma that fills your home and makes it feel like a special occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just trying to impress your family on a busy weeknight, this one-pan wonder delivers both comfort and elegance. Plus, the ease of cooking everything in one pan means fewer dishes to wash—definitely a win in my book!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have more moments to enjoy with loved ones.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of cranberries and rosemary makes this dish appealing for both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily marinate the chicken ahead of time for an even deeper flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means you can focus on what truly matters—spending time with those you love!
• Festive Appeal: Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish adds a splash of seasonal cheer to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need for the One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken:

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
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves
• ¼ cup dry white grape juice (or chicken broth)

For the Chicken

• 6 medium bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 3 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
• Salt (to taste)
• ½ cup fresh cranberries
• 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use bone-in chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of thighs for different flavors and textures.
• Add veggies: Toss in some seasonal vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts to roast alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
• Change up the fruit: If cranberries aren’t available, try using pomegranate seeds or even sliced apples for a different twist.
• Go spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade if you want to give it an extra kick!

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, minced garlic, rosemary leaves, and grape juice. Mixing these ingredients well creates a flavorful marinade that’ll infuse into the chicken during cooking. Letting it sit while you prepare the rest allows those delicious flavors to mingle.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Marinating not only enhances flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during cooking. If you have time, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge).

Step 3: Preheat Your Pan

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. You want that pan nice and hot! This step ensures that when you add your chicken thighs skin-side down, they get beautifully browned and crispy—just how we like them!

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down into your hot skillet. Searing them for about 5-7 minutes will lock in juices and flavor while giving you that lovely golden brown color. Don’t rush this step; it sets up great texture!

Step 5: Add Cranberries and Bake

Once seared, pour any remaining marinade into the skillet along with additional fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs. Give it all a gentle stir before transferring it to a preheated oven set at 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 30-35 minutes until cooked through—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

After baking, let your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken rest for about five minutes before serving. This resting time allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Serve it warm with your favorite side dishes and watch everyone enjoy this festive feast!

Now that you’ve made this delicious dish, I hope it brings joy and warmth to your table just as it does mine!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your one-pan chicken dish to perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and rosemary really make a difference in flavor. Their vibrant taste is essential for that festive touch.
• Don’t rush the marinating: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the olive oil, coconut aminos, and maple syrup mixture for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust cooking time as needed: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your chicken thighs; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect tenderness.
• Save the pan juices: The leftover juices make a wonderful sauce. Just pour them over the chicken before serving for added richness and flavor.
• Experiment with herbs: If you love experimenting, try adding thyme or sage alongside rosemary for an even more aromatic dish.

How to Serve One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Presenting your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken beautifully can make all the difference at your dining table! Here are some ideas to help you serve this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: This bright green herb adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of these adds a mild crunch and a subtle onion flavor that pairs well with the dish’s sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base that soaks up the savory pan juices beautifully.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy little veggies add crunch and bitterness, balancing out the sweetness of the cranberries perfectly.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a light contrast to the hearty chicken dish.
• Steamed Green Beans: Brightly colored green beans add a fresh touch while being simple to prepare, making them an ideal companion for this festive meal.

Enjoy your culinary creation with family or friends; it’s sure to impress everyone at your holiday gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy warm, delicious dinners throughout the week without much fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal taste and freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly.
• Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish!

Can I use different herbs instead of rosemary for One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken?

Absolutely! While rosemary complements the cranberries beautifully, you can experiment with thyme or sage for a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the quantities according to your taste!

How can I make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken gluten-free?

To keep this recipe gluten-free, simply use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. It’s a fantastic alternative that retains great flavor while being safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

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

This chicken dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad. The vibrant flavors make it a versatile choice for any side!

Can I prepare One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken in advance?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating on busy days.

Is there a substitute for fresh cranberries?

If fresh cranberries are not available, you can use dried cranberries. However, reduce the amount of maple syrup slightly as dried cranberries are sweeter than fresh.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken as much as I do! Its warm flavors and festive flair make it a special dish perfect for any gathering or cozy dinner at home. Feel free to get creative with your sides and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!