Cranberry Chicken is one of those cozy, colorful dishes that fills the kitchen with the smell of roasted herbs, citrus, and caramelized chicken skin. The first time I made it during the holidays, I remember how the cranberries softened and burst into a tangy-sweet sauce that coated the golden chicken beautifully, and how simple the whole meal felt while still looking elegant. This Cranberry Chicken brings together juicy, bone-in pieces, fresh rosemary, garlic, lemon, and whole cranberries for a festive, warm, and vibrant dinner that’s perfect for winter nights or holiday gatherings when you want something easy but impressive.
INGREDIENTS
For the chicken:
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
For the cranberry bake:
2 cups fresh cranberries
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 small onion (chopped)
1 lemon (halved)
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2–3 rosemary sprigs
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
Extra rosemary for garnish
Butter for extra richness
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
STEP 1: PREP THE CHICKEN
• Season the Chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme.
Tip: Dry skin gives you a crispier, golden finish.
• Optional Sear: For extra crisp skin, sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side in a hot skillet before roasting.
STEP 2: PREP THE CRANBERRY BASE
• Mix the Cranberries: In a baking dish, combine fresh cranberries, garlic, chopped onion, honey (or maple syrup), balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Tip: Sweetener helps balance the tart cranberries as they roast.
• Add Rosemary & Lemon: Nestle the rosemary sprigs and place lemon halves cut-side up among the cranberries.
STEP 3: ASSEMBLE THE DISH
• Add the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken pieces skin-side up on top of the cranberry mixture.
• Coat Lightly: Spoon some of the cranberry mixture around the chicken but leave the skin exposed so it browns.
Tip: Don’t cover the skin or it won’t crisp properly.
STEP 4: ROAST THE CHICKEN
• Bake Until Crisp: Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 35–45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is deeply golden.
• Caramelize: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end if you want extra crispiness.
Tip: If cranberries look too dry, add 1–2 tbsp broth halfway through.
STEP 5: FINISH THE DISH
• Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest 5 minutes for juicy results.
• Squeeze Lemon: Squeeze the roasted lemon over the chicken and cranberries for bright, fresh flavor.
Tip: The roasted lemon mellows out and adds sweetness.
STEP 6: SERVE WITH COLOR
• Plate Beautifully: Serve with the roasted cranberries, herbs, and pan juices.
• Garnish: Add fresh rosemary and whole cranberries for a festive touch.
Variations
• Add orange slices instead of lemon
• Use chicken drumsticks or wings
• Add sliced carrots or sweet potatoes
• Swap honey for brown sugar
• Add a splash of apple cider for more sweetness
COOKING NOTES
• Use bone-in chicken for best flavor
• Fresh cranberries roast best, they burst and caramelize
• Keep chicken skin uncovered for crispiness
• Don’t skip the sweetener, the cranberries need it
• Balsamic adds depth and color to the sauce
Serving suggestions
• Serve with mashed potatoes
• Add a side of wild rice
• Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts
• Serve with buttered noodles
• Add crusty bread for soaking the sauce
Tips
• Pat chicken dry for crisp skin
• Don’t overcrowd the pan
• Taste the sauce and adjust honey if needed
• Use fresh rosemary for aroma
• Broil briefly for deeper color
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~390
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 32g
FAQs
Why are my cranberries still whole?
- Whole cranberries burst as they roast, but some will stay whole, this gives texture. Stir halfway if you want them softer.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
- Yes, use straight from the freezer without thawing.
Can I use boneless chicken?
- Yes, but reduce cooking time to prevent dryness.
Is the dish sweet or savory?
- It’s a balance of savory herbs, tangy cranberries, and light sweetness.
Can I make it ahead?
- You can prep everything in the dish, cover, refrigerate, then bake fresh.
Conclusion
Cranberry Chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together juicy chicken, tart cranberries, aromatic rosemary, and caramelized citrus for a meal that’s both comforting and festive. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner during the holiday season or a beautiful centerpiece for gatherings when you want something seasonal without extra work. With its golden crispy skin, burst cranberries, and fragrant herbs, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a warm, colorful, and delicious winter dish everyone will love.
