As I sliced into the juicy chicken, the warm aroma of rosemary mingled with the tangy scent of cranberries, instantly transporting me to cozy winter evenings. This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is not just a feast for the senses; it’s a harmonious blend of flavors that make any meal feel festive without the fuss. Imagine tender, marinated chicken thighs kissed with sweetness from maple syrup and a touch of depth from white wine, all coming together in one glorious dish. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or those special gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for paleo, Whole30, and keto lifestyles, making it a win for everyone around the table. Ready to curl up with something comforting yet impressive? Let’s get cooking! Why is One-Pan Chicken So Appealing? Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh cranberries and rosemary creates a burst of flavor that will delight your taste buds. Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from quick family dinners to festive holiday gatherings, and it accommodates various dietary preferences with ease. Time-Saving: Quick marination and straightforward baking mean you can whip up a stunning meal in no time—ideal for busy weeknights! Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves tender, juicy chicken! Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal, making it a hit with family and friends. Check out Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or Caribbean Chicken Rice for more delicious, crowd-friendly options! One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken Ingredients For the Marinade • Fresh Cranberries – Adds tartness and vibrant color; substitute dried cranberries for a sweeter flavor variation. • Olive Oil (or Avocado Oil) – Provides healthy fats and helps the marinade adhere to the chicken. • Coconut Aminos (or Soy Sauce) – Offers umami flavor and a touch of saltiness, perfect for enhancing the dish. • Maple Syrup – Adds sweetness and enhances browning; use sugar-free syrup for a keto-friendly option. • Garlic – Imparts depth of flavor; feel free to use minced if cloves aren’t available. • Fresh Rosemary – Contributes aromatic herbal notes; dried rosemary can work in a pinch, but fresh is preferred. • Dry White Wine (or Chicken Broth) – Enhances richness; use broth for a non-alcoholic alternative. For the Chicken • Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful; they can be replaced with boneless thighs for quicker cooking. This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken recipe seamlessly combines taste and simplicity, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken Step 1: Prepare Marinade In a food processor, combine ⅓ cup of fresh cranberries, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of coconut aminos, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of fresh rosemary. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, creating a vibrant marinade that captures the essence of the season. Step 2: Marinate Chicken Place 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a spacious baking dish. Pour the cranberry marinade generously over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes, or ideally up to 24 hours, allowing the chicken to absorb those enticing flavors for your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken. Step 3: Preheat Oven Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while the chicken marinates. After 30 minutes, let the chicken sit at room temperature for an additional 30 minutes, which will help it cook evenly. This step is crucial for achieving juicy, tender chicken. Step 4: Bake Chicken Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Brush the tops of the thighs with olive oil and season lightly with salt. Scatter leftover fresh cranberries and rosemary over the chicken for added flavor and color. Place the baking dish in the oven, roasting the chicken uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the skin is golden brown. Step 5: Broil for Crispiness Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and brush the skin with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to enhance the sweetness. Switch your oven to broil and return the chicken to cook for an additional 3 to 10 minutes, monitoring closely until the skin is beautifully crispy and caramelized. Step 6: Serve After broiling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken warm, spooning extra marinade over the top for added flavor. Garnish with a few whole sprigs of rosemary for an elegant presentation that will impress your family and guests. Make Ahead Options These One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken thighs are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy evenings! You can marinate the chicken in the flavorful cranberry mixture up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the meat absorbs all those delightful flavors. Just cover the baking dish and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can also prepare the marinade itself and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to bake, simply remove the chicken from the marinade, bake it as instructed, and finish with the broil for that irresistible crispy skin. It’s that simple to enjoy a deliciously impressive meal without the last-minute rush! What to Serve with One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that complement the succulent, tangy flavors of this lovely chicken creation. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the tangy chicken, offering a comforting, indulgent pairing. Garlic Roasted Green Beans: Crunchy and vibrant, these garlicky green beans add a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the meal seamlessly. Citrus Kale Salad: A refreshing blend of kale, orange segments, and a citrus vinaigrette brightens the palate and adds a zesty touch next to the savory chicken. Adding nuts or seeds gives it a satisfying crunch! Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty and fluffy, quinoa pilaf infused with herbs and roasted vegetables brings a wholesome texture and nuttiness that pairs well with the juicy chicken. It also absorbs any extra sauce beautifully! Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots lightly glazed with honey complement the rosemary and cranberries in the chicken, providing a sweet contrast with each bite. Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc will enhance your meal, balancing the sweetness of the cranberries with its bright acidity, perfect for a festive touch. Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp brings a comforting finale to your meal. The sweetness of the apples and the crunchy topping pairs nicely with the fresh, zesty flavors of the chicken. Each of these suggestions brings its own unique flavor and texture to the table, making your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken an unforgettable meal! Storage Tips for One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken Fridge: Store leftover One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain moisture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat your chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick fix. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist! Serving Idea: Pair reheated chicken with fresh sides, just like the first time, to recreate that festive meal experience! Expert Tips for One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken • Marination Magic: For the best flavor, marinate chicken thighs for as long as possible—up to 24 hours will yield juicier, more flavorful results. • Monitor the Broil: While broiling, stay close and watch carefully to avoid burning. Broilers can vary in strength, so adjust the time accordingly. • Crispy Skin Secret: Ensure your chicken is dry before adding the maple syrup before broiling; this helps achieve that irresistible crispy skin on your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken. • Thermometer Accuracy: Use an internal meat thermometer to check for doneness—chicken should reach 165°F to ensure safety and juiciness. • Adjust for Preferences: If you prefer a sweeter dish, consider adding extra maple syrup or using dried cranberries, making it adaptable for everyone’s taste. One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken Variations Feel free to sprinkle your unique touch on this delightful recipe and create a personalized dining experience! Paleo-Friendly: Use raw honey instead of maple syrup for a natural sweetness that fits paleo guidelines. Enjoy a rich flavor while staying true to your healthy lifestyle. Whole30 Approved: Swap maple syrup with a date paste for sweetness without added sugars, perfect for your Whole30 journey. You won’t miss the syrup, and it adds a lovely caramel-like flavor to your dish. Keto-Friendly: Opt for a sugar-free maple syrup to keep those carbs low and flavor high. This keeps the dish indulgent while helping you maintain your keto diet. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade to introduce some heat, elevating the flavor profile in an exciting way. This adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of cranberries, making it enticing for those who love a bit of spice. Veggie Boost: Toss in root vegetables like carrots and parsnips around the chicken in the pan. They will roast beautifully, soaking up the savory juices while adding nutrition to your meal. This creates a colorful and heartwarming dish, perfect for family gatherings. Crispy Skin Alternative: For an extra crispy skin, coat the chicken in a light layer of almond flour before baking. This technique lends a delicious crunch that’s hard to resist! Herb Variations: Experiment with thyme or sage in place of rosemary for a different herbaceous twist. These aromatic herbs will infuse their unique flavors, giving you a new take on this festive dish. Explore these variations to elevate your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken, and don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes like Mango Chicken Stir for more inspiration! One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select fresh cranberries? Absolutely! When selecting fresh cranberries, look for ones that are bright red, firm, and free from dark spots. They should be plump and not wrinkled—this is your indication of freshness! If you’re using dried cranberries, opt for those with minimal added sugars for a healthier alternative. How should I store leftovers? Very important! Leftover One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing to preserve its moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the oven or microwave! Can I freeze this dish? Absolutely! You can freeze One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken for up to 3 months. To do this, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. What if my chicken isn’t crispy? Don’t worry! If your chicken skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, try broiling it for a few extra minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Make sure the skin is dry, and lightly brush it again with maple syrup for that nice golden finish! Are there any dietary considerations? Absolutely! This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is quite versatile. For those following a paleo or Whole30 diet, ensure you use compliant ingredients like coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and check your syrup for sugars. If you have allergies, always verify that none of the ingredients contain your allergens or opt for suitable substitutes. Can I adjust the sweetness of the dish? Very easily! If you prefer a sweeter flavor in your One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken, simply add a touch more maple syrup to the marinade or top it with more cranberries. If you’d like to reduce sugar, consider using less syrup or substituting it entirely with a sugar-free alternative. The more the merrier, so customize it to your taste! One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken: Easy Holiday Delight A festive and flavorful One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsMarination Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade⅓ cup Fresh Cranberries Substitute dried cranberries for a sweeter flavor.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Or Avocado Oil.2 tablespoons Coconut Aminos Or Soy Sauce.2 tablespoons Maple Syrup Use sugar-free syrup for a keto-friendly option.3 cloves Garlic Minced if cloves aren’t available.1 teaspoon Fresh Rosemary Dried rosemary can work in a pinch.1 cup Dry White Wine Or Chicken Broth for a non-alcoholic alternative.For the Chicken6 pieces Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs Can be replaced with boneless thighs for quicker cooking. Equipment Food Processorbaking dishOven Method Preparation StepsIn a food processor, combine ⅓ cup of fresh cranberries, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of coconut aminos, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of fresh rosemary. Blend until smooth.Place 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in a spacious baking dish. Pour the cranberry marinade generously over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the chicken marinates. After 30 minutes, let the chicken sit at room temperature for an additional 30 minutes.Remove the chicken from the marinade, brush the tops with olive oil, and season lightly with salt. Scatter leftover fresh cranberries and rosemary over the chicken. Roast uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes until cooked through.Once cooked, brush the skin with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and broil for an additional 3 to 10 minutes until crispy.Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes, then serve warm with extra marinade and garnish with sprigs of rosemary. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg NotesFor best flavor, marinate chicken thighs for up to 24 hours. Monitor the broil closely to avoid burning and ensure chicken is dry before applying syrup for crispy skin. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
