One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that brings warmth to your table, you’ve found it! The One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the festive flavors of cranberries and rosemary. This recipe has become a staple in my home, especially during the holidays and chilly winter evenings. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and allows for more time spent with loved ones instead of fussing in the kitchen.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this one-pan wonder does the trick. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special without the hassle. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
• Festive Flavors: The combination of cranberries and rosemary adds a vibrant touch to your meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this delicious chicken dish.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for extra flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this recipe fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken uses simple and wholesome items that you might already have at home.

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, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves

For the Chicken

• 6 medium bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 3 pounds)
• ¼ cup dry white grape juice (or chicken broth)
• 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 mix things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts or even turkey for a leaner option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some seasonal veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
• Change the sweetener: Try honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for different sweetness levels.
• Experiment with herbs: If you’re out of rosemary, thyme or sage can add an equally delicious flavor.

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the fresh cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, minced garlic, and rosemary leaves. This marinade not only flavors the chicken but also creates a beautiful glaze as it cooks. Letting it sit for about 10 minutes enhances the flavors!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them and ensure they are well coated. Marinating helps tenderize the meat and infuses each bite with those lovely cranberry-rosemary notes. If you have time, let it sit in the fridge for up to an hour.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat additional olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your marinated chicken thighs skin-side down. Searing them helps develop that golden-brown crust which locks in all those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Bake

After searing on both sides until golden brown, pour in the grape juice (or broth). This liquid will steam and keep everything moist while baking. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Baking

Remove the foil and sprinkle fresh cranberries on top along with extra sprigs of rosemary. Drizzle with maple syrup before returning to the oven uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This step caramelizes everything beautifully!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once done cooking, let your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken rest for about five minutes before serving. It’s perfect alongside rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that fantastic sauce! Enjoy your cozy dinner!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Creating a delicious one-pan dish can be a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary significantly enhances the flavor profile of this dish. Dried herbs lack the vibrant aroma and taste that fresh ones provide, making your meal feel truly special.
• Sear the chicken first: Start by searing the chicken thighs in olive oil until golden brown. This step locks in moisture and adds depth to the overall flavor, ensuring each bite is succulent.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, feel free to add a bit more maple syrup. Balancing the sweet and savory elements makes for a delightful eating experience that pleases all palates.
• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.
• Experiment with fruit: While cranberries are fantastic, consider adding other seasonal fruits such as sliced apples or pears. They can complement the flavors beautifully and add even more festive flair to your dish!

How to Serve One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Serving this beautiful dish is just as important as making it! The colorful presentation will surely impress your guests during any holiday gathering or family dinner.

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs: Placing a few sprigs on top of the chicken not only looks lovely but also reinforces those herbal notes.
• Zest of orange: A sprinkle of fresh orange zest adds a bright pop of color and an invigorating citrus aroma that pairs wonderfully with the cranberries.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce from the chicken. Their rich texture complements the dish splendidly.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and sea salt provide a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. Their slightly nutty flavor adds depth to your meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken, making it an excellent side option.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans sautéed in olive oil or steamed until tender make for a vibrant addition to your plate, providing both color and crunch alongside your main dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create an impressive dining experience sure to delight everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy those vibrant flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure any leftover cranberry sauce is also stored in a separate container.

Freezing

• Cool the chicken completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Alternatively, reheat on the stove over low 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 instead of bone-in?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs can be used; just reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid drying them out. Aim for about 30-35 minutes total cooking time.

How do I prepare One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken for a holiday dinner?

This dish is perfect for holiday dinners! Simply follow the recipe as directed, and consider serving it alongside seasonal sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a festive spread.

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

This flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with sides such as quinoa, rice, or a fresh green salad. You might also add some crusty bread to soak up those delicious juices!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken as delightful as I do! Its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!