One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that captures the essence of winter, then my One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is just what you need! This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with tangy cranberries and fragrant rosemary, creating a beautiful harmony of flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, filling your home with warmth and festive cheer.

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. With just one pan, you can create a meal that looks and tastes like a labor of love. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and just one pan to clean, this dish fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of cranberries and rosemary brings a seasonal touch that’s sure to impress your guests.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy the delicious taste of tender chicken paired with the sweet-tart cranberries.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the chicken in advance, making dinner time even simpler.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! For this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken, you’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store.

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! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use bone-in chicken breasts or skinless thighs for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some seasonal vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts for added color and nutrition.
• Herb swap: Replace rosemary with thyme or sage for a different herbal note.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little kick!

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by combining the fresh cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, minced garlic, rosemary leaves, and grape juice in a bowl. Mixing these ingredients well creates a flavorful marinade that will soak into the chicken, enhancing its juiciness and flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—this allows all those wonderful flavors to infuse into the meat. If you have more time, marinating longer makes it even better!

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-safe pan over medium heat, add olive oil and allow it to warm up. Remove the chicken from its marinade (reserve that delicious liquid!) and place it skin-side down in the hot pan. Searing will give your chicken that lovely golden color while locking in moisture. Cook until golden brown on one side before flipping.

Step 4: Add Cranberries and Bake

Once both sides are seared nicely, pour in the reserved marinade along with any remaining cranberries. Nestle fresh rosemary sprigs around your chicken before transferring the entire pan to your preheated oven. Baking allows all those ingredients to meld together beautifully while ensuring your chicken cooks through perfectly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

After about 45 minutes of baking (or until internal temperature reaches 165°F), remove your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken from the oven. Let it rest for a few moments before serving—it’s hard to resist digging in right away! This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious sauce.

I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s sure to become one of your favorites too.

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Cooking should always be a joyful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and rosemary not only enhance the flavor but also contribute vibrant colors and textures that make your dish visually appealing.

• Don’t skip the marinating: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the cranberry mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) intensifies the flavors, making every bite truly delicious.

• Sear the chicken first: Searing the chicken thighs before baking helps lock in juices and adds a beautiful golden crust, creating depth of flavor in your dish.

• Adjust cooking time based on size: Since chicken thighs can vary in size, always use a meat thermometer to ensure they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect tenderness.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for about 5-10 minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.

How to Serve One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

This dish is not only a feast for the tastebuds but also a delight for the eyes. Here are some creative ways to present your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken that will wow your guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs: A few sprigs placed atop the dish add an aromatic touch and reinforce the rosemary flavor.
• A sprinkle of sea salt: Just a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving enhances all flavors beautifully and adds a lovely crunch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic pair wonderfully with the savory chicken, soaking up all those delicious juices.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and seasoned simply with salt and pepper, these crispy Brussels sprouts bring a delightful earthy note that complements the dish’s sweetness.

• Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf mixed with sautéed onions and herbs adds texture and makes for a hearty side that balances out the meal nicely.

• Cranberry Sauce: For an extra pop of tartness, serve alongside homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. Its vibrant flavor harmonizes beautifully with the chicken’s sweetness.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! Enjoy every moment of this festive meal together.

Make Ahead and Storage

One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is a fantastic choice for meal prep! Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it also keeps well, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• For best flavor, keep the sauce separate until ready to eat.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, covered, until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken:

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs can be used; however, cooking time may vary. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. The vibrant flavors complement many sides beautifully!

How long does One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken last in the fridge?

Leftover One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken will last about 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

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

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor before cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience packed with festive flavors that are sure to impress your loved ones. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your results—happy cooking!