One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and festive cheer to your table, then you’ll absolutely love this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! It’s one of those recipes that not only fills your home with delightful aromas but also creates a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, tart cranberries, and fragrant rosemary makes it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to special family feasts.

What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. With just one pan to clean up afterward, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time making memories with your loved ones. Trust me, this dish has quickly become a favorite in my household, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps and one pan, dinner comes together quickly without any fuss.
• Festive Flavor: The bright cranberries and aromatic rosemary create a dish that feels special, perfect for holiday meals.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the juicy chicken paired with sweet and tangy cranberries; it’s a hit with both kids and adults!
• Leftovers for Days: This recipe is great for meal prep; enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week!
• Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s Christmas dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use bone-in chicken breasts or legs if you prefer; they will still soak up all those delicious flavors.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or Brussels sprouts for added color and nutrition.
• Change the fruit: Instead of cranberries, try using pomegranate seeds or diced apples for a sweet twist.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your dish a little kick!

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing together the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Combining fresh cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, garlic, rosemary leaves, and grape juice creates a vibrant sauce that will infuse the chicken with flavor. This step is vital because marinating allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover tightly, then let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—or overnight if you want to plan ahead! This helps tenderize the meat while allowing those wonderful flavors to permeate every bite.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat up some olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your marinated chicken thighs skin-side down. Searing them until golden brown not only adds flavor but also helps render out some fat from the skin for extra crispiness. Flip them over after about 5-7 minutes, so both sides get that lovely color.

Step 4: Bake with Cranberries and Rosemary

After searing, pour any remaining marinade over the chicken along with additional fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs. Move your skillet into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Let it bake for about 40-45 minutes until cooked through. This slow roasting ensures that each bite is moist and bursting with flavor!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, take your skillet out of the oven—it should look gorgeous with bubbling sauce around it. Let it rest briefly before serving. Garnish with sprigs of fresh rosemary if desired. Your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is now ready to impress! Enjoy it straight from the pan or plate it up alongside some roasted veggies or fluffy rice.

I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Making a flavorful one-pan meal is a breeze with just a few handy tips to elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and rosemary provide vibrant flavors that dried alternatives simply can’t match, making your dish more aromatic and visually appealing.

• Sear the chicken: Starting with skin-side down in a hot pan allows the skin to crisp up beautifully, enhancing both texture and taste before the other ingredients are added.

• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, resulting in tender meat that’s packed with flavor.

• Adjust sweetness to your taste: Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your preference; this will help you achieve the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

• Experiment with herbs: While rosemary shines in this recipe, adding other herbs like thyme or sage can create new flavor profiles that keep things exciting!

How to Serve One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

This delightful dish not only tastes fantastic but also looks stunning when presented. Here are some creative ideas for serving your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken that your guests will appreciate!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
• Lemon zest: Grating some lemon zest over the finished chicken brings an additional burst of citrus flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken sauce.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these Brussels sprouts add a delicious crunch and earthy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the cranberries.
• Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad made with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a healthy contrast to the rich chicken.
• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer both elegance and crunch, making them an ideal accompaniment to this festive dish.

With these serving suggestions, your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken will shine at any holiday gathering or family dinner! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If possible, separate the sauce from the chicken to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries regarding One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken:

Can I substitute other fruits for cranberries in this recipe?

Yes! While cranberries provide a tart contrast, you can use pomegranate seeds or chopped apples for a different flavor profile.

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

To keep your chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer; cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken without bone-in thighs?

Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as they may cook faster.

What side dishes pair well with One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken?

Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the festive flavors beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! It’s not only simple and quick but also bursting with vibrant flavors that are perfect for any gathering. Enjoy sharing this dish with family and friends during your holiday celebrations or cozy dinners at home. Happy cooking!