As I opened my fridge, the vibrant colors of fresh cranberries caught my eye, reminding me of festive gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. Today, I’m excited to share my Baked Cranberry Chicken with Rosemary—a delightful dish that effortlessly marries savory and sweet flavors. Not only is this recipe perfect for a holiday dinner, but it also shines on weeknights when time is tight and comfort is key. With a quick prep time of just about an hour, it transforms humble ingredients into a showstopper. Picture juicy, tender chicken infused with aromatic rosemary, complemented by the tangy burst of cranberries—your guests will be asking for seconds! Ready to discover how to make this easy yet impressive dish? Let’s dive in! Why is Cranberry Chicken a Must-Try? Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just about an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. Flavor Harmony: The delightful blend of sweet cranberries and aromatic rosemary creates a unique taste experience that will captivate your taste buds. Versatile Pairing: Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, like roasted garlic mashed potatoes or a salad of shaved Brussels sprouts for a fabulous feast. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this cranberry chicken is sure to impress and leave your guests asking for the recipe. Health-Conscious: Each serving is light yet satisfying, fitting perfectly into a Mediterranean diet while being packed with antioxidants from cranberries. If you love creative chicken recipes, don’t forget to check out my other favorites like Cream Cheese Chicken and Chicken Alfredo Lasagna! Cranberry Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken Bone-in Skin-on Chicken – Retains moisture and flavor during cooking for a juicy result. Garlic Cloves – Enhances flavor with aromatic qualities; feel free to adjust the quantity based on your taste preference. Fresh Rosemary – Adds a fragrant herbal note that perfectly complements the savory-sweet profile. Sweet Paprika – Increases depth of flavor, with smoked paprika offering an exciting twist. Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the overall taste. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for searing; it adds richness and helps infuse flavors during marination. For the Sauce Fresh Cranberries – Provides a tangy sweetness; fresh is best for maximum flavor, but frozen can work too. Brown Sugar – Balances the tartness of the cranberries with a touch of sweetness. White Wine Vinegar – Adds acidity to brighten flavors; apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute. Celery & Yellow Onion – Create a savory base and enhance the overall sauce’s flavor. Lemon – Brightens the dish with its acidity; both juice and halves can be used to boost taste. Chicken Broth or Water – Creates a flavorful sauce around the chicken; using broth will amplify the flavor profile. Get ready to impress with this delicious Cranberry Chicken that captures the spirit of festive seasonal dining! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Chicken Step 1: Prepare Sugared Cranberries In a medium bowl, combine fresh cranberries with brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar. Toss until the cranberries are evenly coated with the sugar, allowing the sweetness to balance their tartness. Set this mixture aside as it will become a delightful topping for the baked cranberry chicken later. Step 2: Season Chicken Take the bone-in skin-on chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, sweet paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper under the skin. The seasoning will infuse deep flavor into the meat. Make sure the chicken is well-coated for a deliciously savory result once it’s baked. Step 3: Marinate Chicken In a large baking dish, mix extra virgin olive oil, diced celery, chopped yellow onion, remaining white wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Place the seasoned chicken in the dish, making sure it’s surrounded by the vegetable mixture. Coat the chicken well and let it marinate for about 15 minutes to enhance the flavors before cooking. Step 4: Preheat Oven While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will allow the chicken to develop a perfectly crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Preparing the oven in advance ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly, providing that delightful texture. Step 5: Sear Chicken In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a little more olive oil and sear the marinated chicken skin-side down for about 5 minutes. Once the skin is golden and crispy, carefully flip the chicken and brown it for an additional 3 minutes. This step helps lock in the flavors before transferring the chicken into the baking dish with the vegetable mixture. Step 6: Bake Top the seared chicken with the prepared sugared cranberries, ensuring an even distribution. Pour in chicken broth or water around the chicken to create a flavorful sauce. Bake the cranberry chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should be golden brown and the cranberries softened and bursting with flavor. Step 7: Serve Once baked, remove the cranberry chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a beautiful presentation. Serve the chicken hot, spooning the luscious juices and cranberries over each portion for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Chicken Fridge: Leftover cranberry chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: For the best results, reheat the frozen cranberry chicken in the oven to retain its crispy skin. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. Make-Ahead Tip: Consider marinating the chicken overnight for enhanced flavors! Just store it in the fridge before cooking, ensuring it’s well-covered to preserve its delicious taste. What to Serve with Baked Cranberry Chicken with Rosemary Enhance your dining experience with complementary dishes that embrace the warmth and flavors of this festive chicken. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture soaks up the rich pan sauce beautifully, creating a comforting bite with every mouthful. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the savory-sweet chicken. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The rich, garlicky flavor adds depth and decadence, making it a perfect pairing with this elegant dish. Herb-Infused Rice: A fluffy rice pilaf laced with herbs pairs wonderfully, balancing the tartness of the cranberries. Crusty Artisan Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for a delightful way to soak up the luscious juices from the chicken. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, the carrots echo the dish’s flavors while bringing a pop of color to your plate. Sautéed Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter taste and crispy edges create a delightful contrast with the sweet cranberry sauce. Sparkling White Wine: Elevate your meal with a glass of sparkling white wine that complements the dish’s bright and vibrant flavors. Apple Crisp for Dessert: End on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp, its cinnamon spiced flavors echoing the festive nature of the meal. Cranberry-Infused Mocktail: A refreshing drink made from cranberry juice and sparkling water can enhance the cranberries’ essence while being easy to make. Make Ahead Options These Baked Cranberry Chicken with Rosemary are perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners a breeze! You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator; this not only infuses the flavors but also ensures a moist result. Similarly, the sugared cranberries can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the chicken and bake as directed. This method keeps the chicken just as delicious while saving you valuable time during busy evenings, allowing you to enjoy a delightful homemade meal with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Cranberry Chicken Marinate Wisely: Allow the chicken to marinate at room temperature for even flavor or refrigerate it longer for deeper taste enhancement. Temperature Check: If switching to boneless, skinless chicken, reduce the cooking time to around 25 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through. Sear to Perfection: Ensure the chicken skin is well-seared before baking for a crispy texture. Adjust heating times based on your stove or skillet’s characteristics. Cranberry Choices: Opt for fresh cranberries for the best results, but if using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained to maintain the right texture. Vegetable Additions: Feel free to get creative—add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the baking dish for additional flavor and color in your cranberry chicken dish. Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Chicken Embrace your inner chef and customize this delightful Cranberry Chicken to perfectly suit your taste! Thighs Instead of Breasts: Opt for chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful experience that’s wonderfully moist. Frozen Cranberries: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, use frozen ones; just remember to thaw and drain them first for the best flavor! Herb Swap: Change up the herbs and use thyme or sage for a different, aromatic profile that still compliments the chicken beautifully. Add Spice: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the cranberries. Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a touch of Mediterranean flair that enriches each bite. You’ll find that these additions elevate the dish even further. Citrus Alternative: Swap the lemon for orange juice or zest for a sweeter, fruitier sauce that pairs wonderfully with the cranberries. Honey Instead of Brown Sugar: Use honey as a natural sweetener; it adds a nice depth of flavor while keeping things health-conscious. Vegan Version: Substitute the chicken with hearty portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks for a delicious plant-based alternative without losing any of the flavor. For more delicious chicken dishes, check out my comforting Baked Chicken Goujons or the tangy Chinese Orange Chicken. Enjoy experimenting! Baked Cranberry Chicken with Rosemary Recipe FAQs What type of cranberries should I use? For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh cranberries, which add a delightful tartness and vibrant color to your dish. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen cranberries can be used as a substitute—just be sure to thaw and drain them before incorporating them into your recipe. How should I store leftover cranberry chicken? Leftover cranberry chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to let the chicken cool completely before sealing to maintain its moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven to keep that deliciously crispy skin. Can I freeze cranberry chicken? Absolutely! You can freeze cranberry chicken for up to 3 months. To do this, place the fully cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. What can I do if my chicken isn’t cooking through? If you find that your chicken isn’t cooking through, it’s essential to check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. For bone-in chicken, it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If it’s not there yet, return it to the oven and check again every 5 minutes. Remember, using boneless, skinless chicken will require a shorter cooking time—around 25 minutes! What are some dietary considerations with this recipe? When preparing this dish, it’s important to consider dietary restrictions. If you’re serving guests with allergies, ensure they can handle chicken, garlic, and any other ingredients. For those following specific diets, this cranberry chicken recipe fits beautifully into a Mediterranean diet, offering healthy fats and antioxidants. Always check for specific ingredient sensitivities, especially if making substitutions! Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Simply mix the chicken with the marinade ingredients in a bowl or a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate it. This make-ahead step not only saves time but also intensifies the flavor, ensuring a delicious meal that’s ready to pop in the oven at a moment’s notice! Savory Cranberry Chicken: Your Quick Holiday Showstopper Cranberry Chicken is a delightful dish combining savory and sweet flavors, perfect for holiday dinners or busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsMarinating Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Bone-in Skin-on Chicken Retains moisture and flavor during cooking4 cloves Garlic Cloves Adjust quantity based on taste2 tablespoons Fresh Rosemary Chopped1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Smoked paprika can be used for an exciting twist1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for balancing flavors1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for balancing flavors3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil For searing and marinatingFor the Sauce2 cups Fresh Cranberries Fresh is best, frozen can work too1/2 cup Brown Sugar Balances the tartness2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute1 cup Celery Diced1 medium Yellow Onion Chopped1 unit Lemon Juice and halves can be used1 cup Chicken Broth or Water Using broth will amplify flavor Equipment Medium BowlLarge Baking Dishskillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry ChickenIn a medium bowl, combine fresh cranberries with brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar. Toss until evenly coated and set aside.Pat the chicken dry and rub minced garlic, chopped rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper under the skin.Mix olive oil, celery, onion, remaining vinegar, and lemon juice in a large dish. Add seasoned chicken, coat well, and marinate for 15 minutes.Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).In a skillet, sear chicken skin-side down in olive oil for 5 minutes, flip, and brown for another 3 minutes.Top seared chicken with sugared cranberries and pour chicken broth around it. Bake for 35-40 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).Remove from oven, let rest, garnish with rosemary, and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1portionCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesConsider marinating chicken overnight for enhanced flavors. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
