One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken Recipe

“`html

If you’re craving a dish that brings together the bright zing of fresh cranberries, the aromatic hug of rosemary, and the succulent, crispy joy of perfectly roasted chicken thighs, then this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a stunning, effortless meal that feels festive yet simple, combining tangy sweetness with savory, herbaceous warmth all in one glorious pan. The burst of cranberry flavor alongside tender chicken and that hint of maple syrup makes every bite feel like a cozy celebration. Trust me, this recipe will become a guaranteed favorite for weeknight dinners or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting these ingredients together is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in creating the beautiful flavors, textures, and colors that make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken so special. From the tangy cranberries to the fresh rosemary and the sweet undertones of maple syrup, these components harmonize perfectly.

• ⅓ cup fresh cranberries: Adds bright tartness and vibrant color that wakes up the palate.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil): Gives a smooth richness and helps meld the marinade flavors.
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos (or soy sauce): Provides an umami depth and subtle saltiness to balance the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Brings a natural sweetness with a hint of caramel that enhances the cranberries.
• 3 cloves garlic: Infuses the dish with savory warmth and aromatic complexity.
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves: Offers piney, earthy fragrance essential to the dish’s character.
• ¼ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth): Adds acidity and moisture to tenderize the chicken and boost flavor.
• 6 medium bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds): The star protein, whose skin crisps up beautifully and keeps the meat juicy.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil): For brushing the chicken to lock in moisture and encourage golden crispness.
• Salt (to taste): Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors into balance.
• ½ cup fresh cranberries: Scattered around the pan to burst with tartness during roasting.
• 4 sprigs fresh rosemary: Infuses the roasting juices with fragrant, herbal notes.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup: Brushed on just before broiling to create a perfectly caramelized skin.
• Sprigs of fresh rosemary (for garnish): Adds a beautiful finish and extra aroma at the table.

How to Make One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Rosemary Marinade

First, bring all the vibrant marinade ingredients together to build that unforgettable flavor base. Combine fresh cranberries, olive oil, coconut aminos, maple syrup, garlic, rosemary leaves, and white wine in a food processor or blender. Pulse everything until you have a smooth, fragrant marinade that tastes like a holiday hug in a bowl.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Thighs

Place your chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish, making sure they lie flat and don’t overlap. Pour the luscious cranberry rosemary marinade over every piece, coating each thigh generously. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours if you want to plan ahead. This step lets every bite soak up that magical flavor wave.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Remove the baking dish from the fridge and let it come to room temperature while you preheat your oven to 375º Fahrenheit. Carefully uncover the dish and gently scrape any marinade off the tops of the chicken without loosening the skin. Brush the chicken skins with an extra tablespoon of olive oil, then season liberally with salt. Scatter the extra fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs into the dish around the chicken to infuse it as it roasts.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken

Pop the dish into the oven and roast uncovered for about 20 minutes. After that, start checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—once it hits 160º Fahrenheit, you’re almost there! Keep baking as needed but check frequently to avoid overcooking. This patience ensures tender, juicy thighs with crispy skin.

Step 5: Broil for Crispy Perfection

When the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove the rosemary sprigs and turn your broiler on High. Brush one more layer of maple syrup across the tops of the thighs, then carefully move the dish under the broiler. Watch closely as the skin crisps to a gorgeous golden brown without burning. This final step adds irresistible caramelized sweetness and crunch.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Take the dish out and immediately spoon the luscious cranberries and pan juices back over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor. Let the thighs rest for 3 to 5 minutes so the juices redistribute, then serve with fresh rosemary sprigs as a fragrant garnish. This pause locks in juiciness and finishes off your one-pan masterpiece beautifully.

How to Serve One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh rosemary sprigs are a simple but elegant garnish here, lending vibrant herbal notes and a lovely appearance. If you want to add color, a few extra fresh cranberries lightly scattered on the plate or a sprinkle of chopped parsley can brighten up the presentation even more. These little touches invite the eye to savor the dish before each bite.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy wild rice that soak up the pan juices beautifully. For something fresh, roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp green salad provide a lovely contrast in texture and keep the meal balanced. The great thing is the One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken carries enough flavor to stand on its own but welcomes simple, wholesome sides with open arms.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, serve everything right from the baking dish, letting everyone dig into the tender chicken and tangy cranberries. To impress guests, plate each thigh with a drizzle of pan sauce, a sprig of rosemary, and a scattering of crisped cranberry jewels. You could even make individual serving bowls with a hearty grain base topped with the chicken and sauce for a modern, elegant twist that tastes like a treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place your leftover One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days so that the flavors stay vibrant and the chicken remains tender. The cranberry sauce may thicken overnight and actually taste even more concentrated the next day!

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully if you want to save time later. Pack cooled chicken and cranberries with marinade in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, leaving a bit of space to allow for expansion. Frozen, it will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for optimal texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 325º Fahrenheit until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth can help maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the chicken skin from becoming soft—roasted chicken with crispy skin deserves to stay crispy!

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster and still soak up all the delicious marinade flavors. Just reduce the roasting time and keep a close eye on ensuring they don’t dry out.

Is there a substitute for coconut aminos or soy sauce?

You can use tamari or liquid aminos as a gluten-free alternative. If you want to avoid all those, a pinch of salt combined with a little balsamic vinegar can lend a similar savory acidity.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

For a plant-based take, try substituting firm tofu or hearty mushrooms for the chicken and use vegetable broth in place of wine. The marinade and roasted cranberries will still deliver plenty of flavor!

What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?

Dried rosemary can work in a pinch, but use less—about one-third the amount fresh rosemary calls for—since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh rosemary is truly best for the aromatic impact here though.

How tart will the cranberries be? Should I add more maple syrup?

Fresh cranberries naturally bring tang, and the maple syrup balances the tartness wonderfully in this recipe. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add a little extra syrup to the marinade or brush it on more generously before broiling.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about a meal that’s both stunning and simple, and this One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s a wonderful way to brighten your dinner table with a burst of fresh flavors all coming together in one pan. I can’t wait for you to try it, enjoy every juicy bite, and maybe even make it a new tradition in your kitchen. Here’s to delicious meals made easy and full of love!

“`

Print