One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to your table, let me introduce you to my favorite One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights or festive family gatherings where you want something special without spending all day in the kitchen. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, tart cranberries, and fragrant rosemary creates a delightful aroma that fills your home with holiday spirit.

Not only is this dish full of vibrant winter flavors, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it for every occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Festive Flair: Perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals that call for something special.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can marinate the chicken in advance to save time on busy days.
• One-Pan Cleanup: Enjoy your meal without worrying about a mountain of dishes afterward.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is a breeze! They are all simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. 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
• 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)

For Garnish

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some tasty variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use bone-in chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
• Add veggies: Toss in some seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the fruit: Substitute dried cherries or pomegranate seeds for a different fruity twist.
• Herb alternatives: If rosemary isn’t your favorite, try thyme or sage for a new flavor profile.

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by combining the cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, garlic, rosemary leaves, and grape juice in a bowl. Mixing these ingredients together not only creates a flavorful marinade but also ensures every bite of chicken is infused with deliciousness!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover tightly and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully—trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven helps achieve that lovely golden-brown skin on your chicken while keeping it juicy inside.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down. Searing them first locks in juices and adds an amazing depth of flavor through caramelization.

Step 5: Bake It All Together

After searing for about 5 minutes until golden brown, flip them over and add any remaining marinade along with additional fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs on top. Transfer the skillet directly into your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. This step ensures everything cooks evenly while soaking up all those wonderful flavors!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through and beautifully golden brown, remove from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The combination of tangy cranberries and aromatic rosemary will make this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken an instant favorite at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Making this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken will be a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and rosemary elevate the flavor profile of the dish, ensuring you enjoy vibrant, seasonal tastes that frozen or dried versions simply can’t match.
• Marinate for extra flavor: If you have time, let the chicken marinate in the cranberry mixture for at least an hour (or overnight!) before cooking. This allows the flavors to soak into the meat, creating a more flavorful dish.
• Leave space between chicken thighs: When arranging the chicken in the pan, make sure they are not overcrowded. This helps them brown nicely and ensures even cooking.
• Check doneness with a thermometer: Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly juicy chicken.
• Save leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge! Enjoy it reheated or cold in salads for a quick meal throughout the week.

How to Serve One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

This delightful dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also presents beautifully on your dinner table. Here are some ideas to make serving extra special!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to each plate, enhancing the visual appeal of your dish.
• Lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest can brighten up flavors and add a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of cranberries perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with roasted garlic create a comforting and rich side that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The slightly bitter flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts balances out the sweetness from the cranberries, making for a harmonious meal.
• Quinoa salad: Light and fluffy quinoa mixed with diced vegetables and herbs offers a nutritious side that adds texture and freshness to your plate.
• Cranberry walnut salad: A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, walnuts, and cranberries drizzled with vinaigrette brings a crunchy contrast to your savory main course.

With these serving tips and side suggestions, your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken will not only taste fantastic but look stunning on your holiday table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is perfect for meal prep! It’s easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely.
• Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave on medium heat, checking every minute until warmed.

FAQs

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

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What should I serve with One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

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

Simply substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce, and ensure any other ingredients you use are gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in your favorite seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken as much as I do! It’s not only simple but also brings festive flavors that warm your heart and home. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience!