There is nothing quite like the warm, cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in one dish, and that is exactly why the Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe has become an absolute favorite of mine. This delightful combination of juicy, seasoned chicken nestled alongside tart cranberries and sweet apple slices creates a comforting melody of flavors that dance on your palate with every bite. The beautiful golden skin, fragrant herbs, and lightly caramelized fruit make this dish not only a feast for the taste buds but also a stunning centerpiece for your dinner table. Whether you’re gathering for a holiday meal or simply craving a fresh twist on roast chicken, this recipe is sure to become a regular request.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome, and bursting with flavor, these ingredients work together to give you a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Each item plays a key role in building the layers of taste and texture that make this dish special.
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts): Bone-in pieces lock in moisture and ensure juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy skin finish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps crisp the skin beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle peppery bite to balance the sweetness of the fruit.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy herbaceous note that complements the fruit and poultry.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings a subtle warmth and spice that elevates the fall-inspired flavors.
- 2 apples (sliced): Sweet and tender, apples add juiciness and natural sweetness to the dish.
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries: Their tartness provides a lively contrast and vibrant color.
- 1 small red onion (sliced): Adds a mild sharpness and caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
- 1/4 cup apple cider or chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base for the pan juices, enhancing moisture and taste.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Imparts a deep, natural sweetness that works harmoniously with the cranberries and apples.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a touch of tang and complexity to round out the flavors.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish): Provides a fragrant, fresh herbal finish for presentation and aroma.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, setting the perfect temperature to achieve golden, crispy skin and juicy meat. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure they roast rather than steam. Then, sprinkle them evenly with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and ground cinnamon—the spice combination sets the tone for all the delicious flavors ahead.
Step 2: Arrange the Fruit and Onion Base
Grab a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish and drizzle the olive oil to coat the bottom. Next, layer the sliced apples, fresh or frozen cranberries, and red onion slices evenly. This fruit and onion bed will roast gently, releasing sweet and tart juices that infuse the chicken as it cooks, creating a succulent, flavorful sauce right in your pan.
Step 3: Mix and Pour the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider (or chicken broth for a milder option), maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar. This mixture acts as a beautiful glaze and roasting liquid, balancing sweetness with acidity for a rich, nuanced flavor. Pour this liquid evenly over the fruit and onions in the pan.
Step 4: Nestle the Chicken and Roast
Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces skin side up on top of the fruit and onion bed. This positioning helps the skin crisp up nicely while allowing the chicken to soak up the fragrant steam. Roast everything uncovered in the oven for 35 to 45 minutes or until the chicken turns golden brown and an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is utterly irresistible!
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Once out of the oven, spoon some of the luscious pan juices over the chicken to enhance moisture and flavor. For an extra burst of freshness and visual appeal, scatter a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme over the top. This step not only elevates the dish’s aroma but also gives it an elegantly rustic look you’ll be proud to serve.
How to Serve Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme are the simplest way to add an aromatic lift to your dish. You can also sprinkle a few extra cranberries or thin apple slices on top for a colorful and festive touch. A drizzle of that pan sauce over each plate will have your guests savoring every bite.
Side Dishes
This Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the flavorful juices, a bed of fluffy rice, or a platter of roasted seasonal vegetables. These sides add texture and balance and turn your meal into a well-rounded celebration of fall flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, consider serving the chicken and fruit mixture family-style right from the roasting pan to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Another fun idea is plating each portion with a small glass of apple cider or a light red wine to complement the sweet and savory profile of the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The fruit-infused chicken remains moist and flavorful, making for an excellent next-day meal or quick reheat for busy evenings.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe ahead of time, it freezes well. Store portions in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken and fruit mixture in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil to keep moisture in. Warm at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes, or microwave on medium power in shorter intervals, stirring the fruit occasionally to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken for this Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used for convenience. Just plan to shorten the cooking time to 25–30 minutes to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
What type of apples work best in this dish?
Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal because they hold their shape well and provide a nice balance against the sweet maple syrup and tart cranberries.
Do I have to use fresh cranberries or can I use frozen?
Both fresh and frozen cranberries work wonderfully. Frozen cranberries are a great year-round option and will still give you that delicious tart flavor once cooked.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free, especially if you choose chicken broth over apple cider for the glaze. Just ensure your maple syrup and other ingredients are pure and free from additives.
What are some good wine pairings for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe?
A light to medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white such as Chardonnay complements the sweet and savory profile. For a festive twist, sparkling cider or a dry rosé are also great choices.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner for anyone looking to inject comfort, warmth, and a touch of elegance into their weeknight or holiday dinners. The harmony of flavors, ease of preparation, and beautiful presentation make it a dish you will happily turn to again and again. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for celebrating the seasons with a little bit of sweetness and a lot of love.
Print
Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A cozy and flavorful Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken recipe featuring bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs roasted alongside sweet apples, tart cranberries, and red onions with a maple-balsamic glaze. This gluten-free main course delivers a perfect balance of savory and fruity elements, ideal for fall or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Fruit & Vegetables
- 2 apples, sliced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 small red onion, sliced
Glaze
- 1/4 cup apple cider or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin and season them evenly with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and ground cinnamon.
- Arrange fruit and vegetables: Drizzle olive oil into a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Evenly spread sliced apples, cranberries, and red onion across the bottom to create a flavorful bed for the chicken.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider (or chicken broth), maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar until well combined to form a tangy-sweet glaze.
- Assemble and roast: Pour the glaze over the fruit and onion mixture. Nestle the seasoned chicken pieces on top, skin side up, to allow the skin to crisp during roasting. Place the skillet in the oven and roast uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish and garnish: Once cooked, spoon some of the pan juices over the chicken to enhance flavor and moisture. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken for the best flavor and moisture retention.
- If using boneless chicken, reduce cooking time to 25–30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- Pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
