Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken has become a cherished holiday tradition in my home, ever since I first stumbled upon this magical combination of flavors. I remember the first time I pulled the skillet from the oven; the aroma of sweet apples, tart cranberries, and savory chicken filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy, festive scene. This comforting dish truly embodies the spirit of fall and winter gatherings. It’s an easy chicken roasted with cranberries and apples recipe that consistently delivers tender, juicy chicken and a vibrant, flavorful sauce. The sweet and savory notes dance together beautifully, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken

I genuinely believe this dish will become a new favorite in your home for so many reasons. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience!

Incredible Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet apples, tart cranberries, and savory chicken creates a truly irresistible taste.
Effortless Preparation: This is an easy apple cranberry roasted chicken recipe that comes together with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy & Wholesome: Loaded with lean protein and fruit, it’s a nutritious meal you can feel good about serving.
Budget-Friendly: Using common ingredients, this recipe is kind to your wallet without sacrificing flavor.
Family Favorite: Both kids and adults adore the delicious flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the cranberries and apples make for a stunning centerpiece, ideal for holidays.
Flavorful apple cranberry chicken is guaranteed with every bite, thanks to the rich pan sauce and tender fruit.

Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken

To create this delightful Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken, you’ll need a few key components. I’ve found that using fresh, high-quality ingredients truly elevates the flavor of this chicken roasted with cranberries and apples, making every bite memorable.

1 cup frozen or fresh cranberries – I prefer fresh when in season for their vibrant tartness.
2 Tbsp. packed light brown sugar – This balances the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
1 Tbsp. cornstarch – Essential for thickening the delicious pan sauce.
2 tsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce – Adds a wonderful depth of umami to the sauce.
1 tbsp. dry white wine (for cranberry mixture) – Don’t skip this; it adds a subtle complexity.
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – These ensure the juiciest, most flavorful chicken.
Kosher salt, to taste – For seasoning the chicken generously.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – A must for enhancing flavor.
1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil – For browning the chicken to perfection.
1 large shallot, very thinly sliced – Provides a delicate, sweet onion flavor.
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped – Because everything is better with garlic!
1/2 cup dry white wine (for skillet) – Used for deglazing and building the sauce base.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Adds richness and liquid for the sauce.
2 Honeycrisp apples (about 1 lb.), cored and cut into 8 wedges – Their sweet-tart profile is ideal.
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving – For an aromatic, earthy note.
Chopped fresh parsley leaves, for serving – A lovely fresh garnish to finish.

Amazing Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken with crispy skin and vibrant cranberries and apples in a skillet

How to Make Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken

Making this incredible Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken is simpler than you might think! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, cozy meal ready in under an hour. I love how the kitchen fills with amazing aromas as it cooks.

Step 1: First, preheat your oven to a hot 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, grab a medium bowl and combine your cranberries, brown sugar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of dry white wine. Give it a gentle toss until all the cranberries are coated. This mixture is the secret to a tangy, sweet glaze for your chicken.
Step 2: Pat your chicken thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for crispy skin! Season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet (oven-safe is key for this cranberry apple chicken bake) over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and let them sizzle for 5 to 6 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden brown and caramelized. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. Carefully pour off almost all of the fat from the skillet, leaving just about 1 tablespoon. Add your thinly sliced shallots and cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes until they’re tender and translucent. Now, add the finely chopped garlic and continue cooking, stirring constantly, for just 1 more minute until it smells wonderfully fragrant and looks slightly golden.
Step 4: Pour in the remaining 1/2 cup of dry white wine and turn the heat back up to high. Cook, stirring often, until most of the liquid has evaporated, which usually takes about 2 minutes. Then, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Step 5: Stir in the prepared cranberry mixture, making sure to scrape in any residual sugar from the bowl. Add your apple wedges and gently combine everything in the skillet. Nestle the browned chicken thighs into the skillet, skin side up, so they can soak up all those delicious flavors. Sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme over the top of your soon-to-be delicious roast chicken with apple and cranberry.
Step 6: Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the fruit is tender, bubbling, and aromatic.
Step 7: Remove the skillet from the oven. For a final flourish, sprinkle additional chopped fresh thyme and fresh parsley over the dish before serving. This adds a lovely fresh herbal note and a pop of vibrant color to your stunning Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken.

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken

I’ve made this dish countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks that truly elevate this Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken from good to absolutely phenomenal. These simple tips will ensure your chicken is always juicy, your sauce is perfectly balanced, and your meal is a resounding success every time you prepare it.

Always pat your chicken thighs very dry before seasoning and browning. This is crucial for achieving that wonderfully crispy skin that everyone loves.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the chicken; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and a beautiful crust.
Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.
Taste the cranberry mixture before adding it to the skillet; adjust the brown sugar if your cranberries are exceptionally tart or sweet.
Use an oven-safe skillet! This saves you from transferring everything and creates fewer dishes to wash, making for an easier clean-up.

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken?

The real secret to the most flavorful Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken lies in the initial browning of the chicken and the deglazing of the pan. This builds a rich flavor foundation. Also, don’t skimp on fresh herbs; they brighten the entire dish, making it the best apple cranberry roasted chicken recipe you’ll ever try.

Can I make Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken ahead of time?

You can definitely prep parts of this Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken in advance! Prepare the cranberry mixture and chop your shallots and garlic a day ahead. You can even brown the chicken thighs and refrigerate them. Assemble and roast just before serving for the freshest taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken?

To avoid common pitfalls with Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken, ensure your oven is fully preheated before roasting—this promotes even cooking. Also, don’t overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to pull it at 165°F (74°C) to keep it juicy. Lastly, don’t forget to deglaze the pan thoroughly to capture all those delicious browned bits.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken

Once your incredible Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken emerges from the oven, bubbling and fragrant, you might be wondering how best to serve it. I find its sweet and savory profile pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making for fantastic apple cranberry chicken dinner ideas that satisfy every palate.

For a hearty, comforting meal, I love serving this chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf. The rich sauce from the pan drippings is absolutely divine drizzled over them. Another excellent option is roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, which complement the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.

If you’re looking for something lighter, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast. The vibrant colors and flavors of the chicken and fruit truly shine when accompanied by these complementary dishes, making every meal feel special.

Close-up of Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken with tender chicken, glistening sauce, and fresh herbs

Nutrition Facts for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken

For those mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of this delicious Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken (recipe makes 4 servings). I always like to have an idea of what I’m enjoying, especially when it’s such a flavorful meal.

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with fruit and sauce
Calories: 420
Protein: 35g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 450mg
Cholesterol: 125mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the exact size of your chicken thighs or the brand of broth. This data provides a good general overview for your healthy Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken

One of the best things about making Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken is that it often yields delicious leftovers! Proper storage is key to enjoying your meal again. Once the chicken and fruit have cooled completely to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. I usually separate the chicken from the fruit and sauce for easier reheating.

Your cooked Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you’ve learned how to make apple cranberry roasted chicken for meal prep, it freezes beautifully too! Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, I recommend placing the chicken and sauce in an oven-safe dish, covering it loosely with foil, and warming it in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also gently reheat individual portions on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave, though the skin may not be as crispy. Enjoying this flavorful dish again is always a treat!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken

What is Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken?

Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken is a delightful main course featuring tender chicken thighs roasted with a sweet and tart mixture of apples and cranberries. It’s often seasoned with herbs like thyme and garlic, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. I always describe it as comfort food with a gourmet twist, perfect for any occasion.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe?

While you certainly can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken, I highly recommend bone-in, skin-on chicken. The bone adds more flavor and helps the chicken stay juicier, and the skin gets wonderfully crispy, adding texture. If you opt for boneless, reduce the cooking time to prevent it from drying out.

What kind of apples work best for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken?

For the best Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken, I prefer using firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. These varieties hold their shape well during roasting and provide a lovely balance to the tart cranberries. Softer apples might turn to mush, which isn’t ideal for the texture of the dish.

Can I add other vegetables to this roasted chicken dish?

Absolutely! This Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken is quite versatile. I sometimes add chunks of sweet potato, butternut squash, or even Brussels sprouts to the skillet alongside the apples and cranberries. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly with the chicken and fruit. It’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies!

Variations of Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken, you might be curious to experiment with different twists! I love how adaptable this dish is, allowing for creative variations that cater to different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next culinary adventure.

For a slightly different flavor profile, consider adding a touch of orange zest or a splash of orange juice to the cranberry mixture. This brightens the fruit flavors and adds another layer of citrusy sweetness to your Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken.
If you’re looking for a truly healthy apple cranberry roasted chicken option, you can swap out the brown sugar for a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey, adjusting to taste. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a leaner protein choice, just be mindful of cooking times.
To make it a one-pan meal with even more vegetables, try adding root vegetables like diced sweet potatoes or parsnips to the skillet alongside the apples. They roast beautifully and absorb all the delicious pan juices, creating a more substantial and flavorful dish.
For a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the cranberry mixture can add a wonderful contrast to the sweet and tart fruit, turning your familiar Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken into something new and exciting.

Amazing Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken: 1 Secret!

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Author: Margaret
Total Time: 55 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken recipe offers a cozy, comforting dish with a sweet and savory flavor profile. Tender bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are roasted with tart cranberries and sweet apples, creating a delightful harmony in every bite. It’s an easy yet impressive meal perfect for chilly evenings or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup frozen or fresh cranberries
2 Tbsp. packed light brown sugar
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
2 tsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp. dry white wine (for cranberry mixture)
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 large shallot, very thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 cup dry white wine (for skillet)
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 Honeycrisp apples (about 1 lb.), cored and cut into 8 wedges
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves, plus more for serving
Chopped fresh parsley leaves, for serving

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Instructions

Prepare Cranberry Mixture: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a medium bowl, combine cranberries, brown sugar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of dry white wine. Toss everything together gently until well coated. This mixture will provide a tangy and sweet glaze for the chicken.
Season and Brown Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Lower the heat to medium. Carefully pour off all but about 1 tablespoon of fat from the skillet. Add thinly sliced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and translucent, about 2 minutes. Add chopped garlic and continue cooking, stirring, until fragrant and slightly golden, about 1 more minute.
Deglaze and Reduce: Pour in the remaining 1/2 cup of dry white wine and turn the heat back up to high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated, roughly 2 minutes. Then add chicken broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Add Fruit and Nestle Chicken: Stir in the prepared cranberry mixture along with any residual sugar from the bowl. Add the apple wedges and combine gently. Nestle the browned chicken thighs into the skillet with skin side up. Sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme over the top.
Roast in Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the fruit is tender and bubbling.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven. Sprinkle additional chopped fresh thyme and parsley over the dish before serving to add a fresh herbal note and vibrant color.

Notes

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and juiciness in your Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken.
If you don’t have dry white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth, but the flavor will be milder.
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
For a thicker sauce, let the cooked mixture simmer longer on the stove after roasting.
Honeycrisp apples are suggested for their sweet-tart balance but any firm apple will work for this roasted chicken recipe.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American