One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken Recipe

This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is a perfect combination of savory and sweet, ideal for weeknight dinners or festive occasions. Juicy chicken thighs are seared to perfection, then baked with fresh cranberries, rosemary, and a touch of honey for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Plus, everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

What Is One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken?

This recipe features tender, bone-in chicken thighs cooked with vibrant cranberries, fragrant rosemary, and a hint of sweetness from honey. The cranberries add a tangy twist, balanced by the savory depth of garlic and chicken broth. It’s an easy yet elegant dish that can be dressed up for a holiday table or kept simple for everyday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
• One-Pan Cleanup: No extra pots or pans to wash.
• Flavorful and Festive: A harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tart flavors.
• Versatile Pairings: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted veggies to creamy mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper.

Searing the Chicken

3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove and set aside.

Making the Sauce

6. In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
7. Add the cranberries, rosemary sprigs, chicken broth, and honey, stirring to combine.

Baking the Dish

8. Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken.
9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving

10. Serve the chicken hot, with the cranberry sauce spooned over the top. This dish is excellent with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with steamed green beans, wild rice pilaf, or buttery mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• A glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s tart and savory flavors beautifully.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

Recipe Variations

• Boneless Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a leaner option, but reduce the baking time slightly.
• Herb Substitution: Swap rosemary with thyme for a different herbal note.
• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange juice or zest for extra brightness.
• Low-Carb: Replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener to make this dish keto-friendly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly. No need to thaw them; just add them directly to the skillet.

Can I make this with chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
Transfer the sauce and seared chicken to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.

This One-Pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken is a simple yet elegant recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a festive centerpiece, this dish delivers on flavor, ease, and presentation. Try it tonight and share your experience—your taste buds will thank you!

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