Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan)

If you’re looking for a cozy and festive dish that brings warmth to your table, then look no further! My Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan) recipe is a true gem. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. With the sweet and tart notes of cranberries paired with aromatic rosemary, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike.

Imagine coming home after a long day, and within just over an hour, you have a hearty meal that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner or simply want to impress your loved ones, this one-pan wonder will surely be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy your evening.
• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup means you can spend more quality time with family instead of scrubbing dishes.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh cranberries and rosemary creates a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chicken, and the sweet-tart glaze adds a fun twist that even kids will enjoy!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, making it an ideal option for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this delightful dish, 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
• 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 get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using bone-in chicken breasts or even turkey thighs for a different flavor profile.
• Add vegetables: Toss in some seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots for an all-in-one meal.
• Change up the herbs: If rosemary isn’t your favorite, thyme or sage would work beautifully too.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your dish a little kick!

How to Make Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan)

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by combining fresh cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, minced garlic, and rosemary in a bowl. This marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors while keeping it moist during baking. The sweet-tart cranberries are especially delightful!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Seal or cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—this step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Preheat and Arrange

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, take out your marinated chicken and place it in a large baking dish along with any remaining marinade. Arranging everything in one pan not only saves time but also allows those delicious juices to mingle.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The skin will turn golden brown and crispy while staying juicy inside. Trust me; this aroma will make everyone gather around!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle additional fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs on top for a beautiful presentation. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps keep all those tasty juices locked in. Now you’re ready to enjoy this vibrant Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan)!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan)

Cooking can be a breeze with a few handy tips to elevate your dish and make the process even smoother!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries and rosemary bring out the best flavors in this dish, making it taste vibrant and festive. Dried herbs and fruit simply won’t provide the same burst of freshness.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have extra time, marinating the chicken thighs in the olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, and garlic mixture for about 30 minutes can intensify the flavors. It’s a simple technique that makes a world of difference!
• Check Doneness with a Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption, preventing any guesswork.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: After baking, allow your chicken to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices within the meat, resulting in moist and tender chicken.
• Experiment with Flavor Variations: Feel free to adjust the recipe by adding seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes. Not only does this add color, but it also enhances nutritional value while creating a one-pan feast!

How to Serve Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan)

Presentation is key when serving up this delicious meal! The beautiful colors of the cranberries and rosemary make for an inviting plate that’s perfect for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a refreshing flavor contrast that complements the sweetness of the cranberries.
• Lemon Zest: A light zesting of lemon over the top right before serving will brighten up your dish with citrus notes that pair wonderfully with chicken.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that balances well with the savory-sweet baked chicken.
• Roasted Green Beans: Tossed in olive oil and lightly seasoned before roasting, green beans provide a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts with tender chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing side that complements the rich flavors of your main dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce is not just for Thanksgiving! A small dish on the side can enhance each bite while adding an extra layer of tangy goodness to balance out the meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is sure to impress at any table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

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

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the chicken cool fully before freezing.
• Wrap each chicken thigh individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1 month.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place chicken in a baking dish; cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use different herbs in my Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan)?

Absolutely! While rosemary adds a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage for a different twist. Just remember to adjust according to your taste preferences!

What side dishes go well with Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan)?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. The sweet-tart cranberries make it festive enough for any holiday gathering!

How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?

To ensure that your chicken is safely cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.

Can I substitute the chicken thighs with another cut of chicken?

Yes! You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or even boneless cuts if you prefer. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan) is great for meal prep as it stores well and retains its flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Baked Cranberry Rosemary Chicken (One-Pan) as much as I do! It’s not only simple and delicious but also brings a touch of warmth and festivity to your table. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!