One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the warmth of the holidays into your kitchen, then let me introduce you to my favorite One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! This delightful recipe not only fills your home with a festive aroma but also delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special, or for family gatherings where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just one pan to clean up afterward, it makes hosting easier and more enjoyable. Plus, the combination of juicy chicken thighs and tangy cranberries creates a deliciously unique dish that everyone will be talking about!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This one-pan wonder comes together quickly, making it ideal for any night of the week.
• Festive Flavor: The vibrant blend of cranberries and rosemary gives this dish a holiday flair that will elevate your dinner table.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the sweet and savory balance in this comforting meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it earlier in the day, then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve!
• Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pan, you’ll have less to wash up afterward—more time to enjoy with loved ones!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken. These are easy to find and will create a beautiful dish that warms both the heart and the stomach.

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:

• ¼ cup dry white grape juice (or chicken broth)
• 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 quite flexible! Here are some fun ideas on how you can mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein: If chicken thighs aren’t your thing, try using chicken breasts or even turkey thighs for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or Brussels sprouts before baking for an extra dose of nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade if your taste buds crave a little heat!
• Switch up the fruit: Use pomegranate seeds instead of cranberries for a burst of sweetness and color.

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine fresh cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, minced garlic, and rosemary leaves. Mixing these ingredients together creates an aromatic marinade that infuses flavor into your chicken while it cooks—don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add your chicken thighs to the bowl with marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated; this helps lock in moisture during cooking. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if you have time) to really enhance those flavors.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan. Searing them first gives that beautiful golden crust and adds depth to our dish.

Step 4: Assemble Everything

Once browned on both sides (about 5-7 minutes), pour in dry white grape juice (or chicken broth). Then scatter additional fresh cranberries around and tuck in sprigs of rosemary. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 5: Bake

Transfer your skillet into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 35-40 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking melds all those wonderful flavors together while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done baking, drizzle with extra maple syrup if desired before serving. Plate up this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken with some roasted veggies or rice on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Cooking a delicious meal can feel like a breeze with just a few helpful tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cranberries and rosemary bring a vibrant flavor that dried versions simply can’t match. This freshness will make your dish taste even more delightful and festive.

• Marinate the chicken: If you have the time, marinating the chicken thighs in the olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, garlic, and rosemary for a few hours (or even overnight) will infuse them with incredible flavor.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each chicken thigh enough space in the pan to cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

• Baste while cooking: Use a spoon to baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking. This helps keep the meat moist and enhances the flavor as it cooks.

• Let it rest before serving: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This step helps redistribute juices within the meat for a tender bite.

How to Serve One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Presenting your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve it with style!

Garnishes

• Fresh rosemary sprigs: A few sprigs placed on top of the chicken not only add visual appeal but also enhance aroma.
• Sliced lemons: Adding lemon slices around the dish brightens up both color and flavor, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

Side Dishes

• Herbed Quinoa: A fluffy quinoa seasoned with fresh herbs serves as a wonderful base for soaking up all those delicious pan juices.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these sprouts provide a crunchy texture that complements the tender chicken perfectly.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for an indulgent side that pairs beautifully with this flavorful dish.

• Winter Salad: A fresh salad made with mixed greens, sliced pears, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances out the richness of the main course.

With these serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress your family or guests at your next holiday gathering! Enjoy this festive dish that brings warmth and cheer to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the chicken has cooled down before freezing.
• Place the chicken and sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
• To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! This dish stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it great for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above.

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

This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Feel free to get creative!

Can I substitute ingredients in One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken?

Yes! You can swap out olive oil for avocado oil and use chicken broth instead of grape juice, depending on your preferences.

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

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with festive flavors that will surely bring warmth to your table. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or a cozy dinner at home, I’m excited for you to share this delightful dish with loved ones. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!