One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that captures the cozy essence of winter while being incredibly easy to make, then you’ll love my One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! This recipe is not just a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors that perfectly blend sweet and savory. With vibrant cranberries and fragrant rosemary, it’s an ideal centerpiece for your holiday gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner that feels special.

I adore this recipe because it comes together in one pan, saving you time on cleanup while still impressing family and friends. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a chilly evening at home, this dish always brings warmth and joy to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dish ready to cook in no time.
• One-pan convenience: Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful and festive: The combination of cranberries and rosemary creates a delightful taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the savory chicken paired with the sweetness of cranberries.
• Make-ahead option: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for even more flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to find that this recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather what we need for this delightful 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 One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use bone-in chicken breasts if you prefer. They will cook similarly but may need slight adjustments in cooking time.
• Add seasonal veggies: Toss in some Brussels sprouts or carrots alongside the chicken for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a gentle kick.
• Try different herbs: If rosemary isn’t your favorite, thyme or sage can give it a unique twist!

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine your fresh cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, minced garlic, rosemary leaves, and grape juice. Mix well until everything is combined. This marinade is key because it infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it juicy.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them and ensure they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you have time! Marinating enhances the flavors and tenderness of your chicken.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While your chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will help crisp up those delicious skin-on thighs while roasting.

Step 4: Arrange Everything in the Pan

After marinating, take out your chicken thighs and place them skin-side up in a large oven-safe skillet. Pour any remaining marinade over them along with additional fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary. This step makes sure every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 5: Roast Until Perfectly Cooked

Drizzle an extra tablespoon of olive oil over everything and sprinkle with salt to taste. Roast in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden brown and crisp—a sign that it’s ready to serve!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, take out your skillet from the oven carefully. Allow it to rest for about five minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture in the chicken. Plate up with some roasted cranberries as garnish; they look beautiful and add an extra burst of flavor!

Now you’re all set to enjoy this stunning One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Creating a perfect One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is easy with a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and herbs make a world of difference in flavor, giving your dish that vibrant, festive taste that embodies the spirit of the season.

• Marinate the chicken: If you have time, marinating the chicken thighs in the cranberry mixture for a couple of hours (or overnight) will infuse them with deeper flavors and keep them juicy during cooking.

• Adjust cooking times based on size: If your chicken thighs are on the larger side, they may need extra cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

• Baste while cooking: Basting the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking can help keep it moist and enhance its flavor profile, making every bite succulent.

• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven helps retain its juices, leading to a more flavorful and tender dish.

How to Serve One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

This dish not only looks stunning but also tastes incredible on its own. However, there are plenty of ways to elevate your presentation and create a well-rounded meal!

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs: Adding a few sprigs as a garnish enhances visual appeal while reinforcing that delightful rosemary flavor.
• A sprinkle of sea salt: A light dusting of flaky sea salt just before serving can amplify flavors and add a nice texture contrast.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper, these veggies caramelize beautifully in the oven, creating a deliciously crispy exterior that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.

• Creamy mashed potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the tangy cranberry sauce, soaking up all those lovely juices from the chicken.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to your plate and balances out the richness of the chicken.

• Garlic green beans: Sautéed with garlic and olive oil, these green beans add color and crunch to your meal while offering a nutritious side option that’s quick to prepare.

Enjoy crafting this heartwarming dish for your next gathering or cozy dinner at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it save time, but the flavors deepen and improve as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious. Here’s how to store and enjoy your meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cooled chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

While bone-in thighs provide a richer flavor and moisture, you can substitute boneless thighs. Just reduce cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a light salad. The vibrant flavors of cranberries and rosemary complement many sides!

Can I make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat when ready to serve!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken as much as I do! It’s a wonderful dish that brings warmth and cheer to any table—perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Remember, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, each bite is filled with festive vibes! Happy cooking!