The aroma of roasted chicken wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet tartness of cranberries, creating an irresistible invitation to the dinner table. Imagine a beautifully golden chicken surrounded by jewel-toned cranberries, all perfectly roasted on a single sheet pan. Butter Braised Cabbage It’s not just a meal; it’s a festive gathering filled with laughter and warmth.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries
- How to Make Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What ingredients do I need for Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries?
- How long does it take to cook Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries?
- Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?
- How do I store leftovers from Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries?
- Conclusion for Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries :
- 📖 Recipe Card
I vividly remember the first time I made this dish for my family during the holiday season. My kitchen transformed into a bustling hub where the clinking of utensils harmonized with cheerful chatter. This Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries became our go-to recipe, turning ordinary dinners into extraordinary celebrations. Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an elaborate holiday feast, this dish promises to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sheet pan wonder is incredibly easy to prepare, making cleanup a breeze after your festive gathering.
- The sweet and savory flavor profile captivates even picky eaters, ensuring everyone leaves with happy bellies.
- Its stunning visual appeal will impress your guests and elevate your dinner table game.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, you can adapt it for weeknight meals or special events alike.
Ingredients for Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries
For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Bone-in Chicken Thighs: These juicy thighs are perfect for roasting as they stay moist and flavorful throughout cooking.
- Fresh Cranberries: Look for bright red berries; they add a delightful tartness that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil enhances flavors and ensures that everything roasts beautifully.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme brings an aromatic touch that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential; season generously for maximum flavor.
- Honey: A touch of honey adds sweetness to contrast with the tart cranberries.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab your trusty baking sheet—no one likes washing extra dishes!
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
Pat dry about six bone-in chicken thighs with paper towels, then season them generously with salt and pepper. You want every bite bursting with flavor!
Step 3: Toss in Flavor
In a large bowl, combine fresh cranberries with olive oil, thyme leaves, and honey. Toss until well coated—this sweet-tart mixture is going to be magical!
Step 4: Assemble Everything
Arrange the seasoned chicken on one side of the baking sheet and spread out those gorgeous cranberries on the other side. Don’t be shy about crowding them; they’ll shrink as they roast.
Step 5: Roast Away
Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven and roast everything for about 35-40 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy!
Step 6: Serve Up
Transfer everything to plates or serve family-style straight from the pan! Drizzle any leftover juices over your meal for that perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it—a beautiful Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about how easy (and fun) it was to create such culinary magic in your kitchen.
You Must Know
- This festive sheet pan roasted chicken with cranberries is not just a dish; it’s a celebration on your table.
- The juicy chicken and sweet-tart cranberries turn any meal into a festive occasion.
- You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you season the chicken. Sear the chicken skin-side down in a hot pan for crispy texture, then transfer it to the sheet pan alongside cranberries, vegetables, and spices. Roast until everything is perfectly cooked and fragrant.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the cranberries for seasonal fruits like apples or figs. Experiment with herbs such as rosemary or thyme for added depth. You can also add some root vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition—carrots and parsnips work wonderfully!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently in the oven to maintain crispiness, or microwave covered for convenience.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Be generous with seasoning—the skin loves it!
- Let your roasted chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
Sometimes I make this recipe just so I can hear my friends rave about how delicious it is. Nothing beats that moment when someone takes a bite and their eyes light up—it’s pure magic!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries?
To prepare Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries, gather a whole chicken, fresh cranberries, potatoes, carrots, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. This combination of ingredients creates a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the holiday spirit. Miso Glazed Brussels Sprouts You can also add onions or Brussels sprouts for additional flavor. Using seasonal produce makes this recipe even more festive.
How long does it take to cook Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries?
Cooking Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). The chicken needs approximately 60-75 minutes to roast until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary based on the size of the chicken, so always check with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries for Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries. However, you should not thaw them before adding them to your dish. Frozen cranberries will release some moisture as they cook, which can enhance the sauce’s flavor. Just ensure that they are fresh and not freezer-burned for the best results. For more inspiration, check out this hot honey chicken dish recipe.
How do I store leftovers from Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries?
To store leftovers from your Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries, first allow them to cool down to room temperature. Then place the chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored leftovers can last up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy again.
Conclusion for Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries :
Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries is a delightful dish that captures the essence of the holiday season. With a perfect blend of chicken, seasonal vegetables, and tart cranberries, it offers both flavor and ease of preparation. Creamed Corn Side Dish By following the simple steps outlined above, you can create a memorable meal that will impress your guests during festive gatherings. Enjoy this comforting recipe that brings warmth and joy to any table!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Savor the festive spirit with this Festive Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken + Cranberries. Juicy bone-in chicken thighs roast to perfection alongside vibrant cranberries, creating a delightful balance of savory and tart flavors. This one-pan wonder not only simplifies cleanup but also impresses guests with its stunning presentation, making it the ideal centerpiece for any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in chicken thighs
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
- Pat dry the chicken thighs and season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, combine cranberries, olive oil, thyme, and honey; toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange seasoned chicken on one side of the baking sheet and spread cranberries on the other side.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has golden brown skin.
- Serve immediately, drizzling any leftover juices over the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with cranberries (200g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
