Name: Cranberry Glazed Chicken with Carrots & Sweet Potatoes Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 medium bone-in chicken thighs (Provides rich flavor and juiciness; boneless options can reduce cooking time.); Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 tablespoon butter (Adds richness during searing.); 1 tablespoon olive oil (Used for searing the chicken.); 3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced; Honeycrisp or Gala recommended.); 1 cup fresh cranberries (Canned cranberries can be substituted.); 3 sprigs fresh rosemary (Can be replaced with thyme or sage.); 1 tablespoon olive oil (For sautéing garlic.); 1 clove garlic (minced; omit for a garlic-free version.); 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (Can be swapped for apple cider vinegar.); 1/4 cup maple syrup (Key to the glaze's sweetness.); Salt and pepper (to taste)

As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the enchanting aroma of roasted chicken, warm spices, and tart fruits. This Maple-Glazed Roast Chicken with Apples and Cranberries is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that reminds me of autumn family gatherings. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this gluten-free dish featuring juicy bone-in thighs, balanced by sweet apples and zesty cranberries, making it a convenient and crowd-pleasing option for busy weeknights or festive occasions. The luscious maple glaze ties everything together, ensuring every bite brings warmth and comfort. Curious about how to make this dish a centerpiece at your next dinner? Let’s dive in!

Why is this roast chicken unforgettable?

Simplicity: This Maple-Glazed Roast Chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any home cook. Quick Cooking: In just 35 minutes, you can have a festive meal ready for your family or guests. Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet apples, tart cranberries, and a rich maple glaze elevates the dish to a flavor-packed delight. Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute with boneless chicken thighs or skin-on breasts for a different twist. Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is bound to impress your dinner guests, just like my Sweet Chili Chicken. Comforting Essence: The warm spices and comforting ingredients make it a go-to for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Cranberry Glazed Chicken Ingredients

• To make your culinary journey easier, here’s everything you need for this delightful dish!

For the Chicken

4 medium bone-in chicken thighs (1-1/2 lbs) – Provides rich flavor and juiciness; boneless options can reduce cooking time.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out the chicken’s innate flavors.

For the Roasting

1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness during searing; keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for searing the chicken; can be swapped with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced – Adds sweetness and texture; Honeycrisp or Gala are perfect for firmness.
1 cup fresh cranberries – Balances sweetness with tartness; canned cranberries can be substituted if necessary.
3 sprigs fresh rosemary – Infuses aromatic flavors; can be replaced with thyme or sage for a different profile.

For the Maple Glaze

1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing garlic; if you prefer, this can be left out.
1 garlic clove, minced – Provides depth to the glaze; omit for a garlic-free version if desired.
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – Adds acidity; can be swapped for apple cider vinegar if necessary.
1/4 cup maple syrup – The key to the glaze’s sweetness; feel free to substitute with honey if you prefer.
Salt and pepper to taste – Important for adjusting the glaze seasoning as needed.

This Cranberry Glazed Chicken with Carrots & Sweet Potatoes promises to be a hit at your table, delivering a special touch for any gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Glazed Chicken with Carrots & Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a consistent cooking environment for your Cranberry Glazed Chicken with Carrots & Sweet Potatoes. Make sure to allow at least 10 minutes for the oven to reach the desired temperature before you start cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the oven heats, generously season the bone-in chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step elevates the overall flavor, ensuring each bite of your succulent chicken is savory and satisfying. Set the seasoned chicken aside as you prepare for the next step.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs, searing them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This not only adds flavor but also creates a luscious texture.

Step 4: Add the Fruits and Rosemary
Once the chicken is seared, remove the skillet from heat and artfully arrange the sliced apples, fresh cranberries, and sprigs of rosemary around the chicken in the skillet. This not only adds vibrant color but also infuses the dish with aromatic flavors while it roasts in the oven.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken
Place the skillet in your preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken and vegetables, ensuring they cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and that the apples are soft and slightly caramelized. This is the perfect moment to let those delightful flavors meld together.

Step 6: Prepare the Maple Glaze
While the chicken is roasting, prepare the maple glaze. In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your glaze, adding a delicious backdrop to the sweetness.

Step 7: Simmer the Glaze
Stir in 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and 1/4 cup of maple syrup to the skillet, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a luscious glaze. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve
Once the chicken is fully roasted, remove the skillet from the oven and drizzle the warm maple glaze generously over the chicken, apples, and cranberries. The final touch adds a glossy, aromatic finish to your Cranberry Glazed Chicken with Carrots & Sweet Potatoes, making it a mouthwatering centerpiece for your table.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Glazed Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover cranberry glazed chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, drizzling with a bit of water or broth to keep it moist, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Glazed Chicken

Perfect Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
Boneless Adjustments: If using boneless chicken thighs or breasts, reduce roast time to avoid dryness, cooking them for 15-20 minutes.
Maple Glaze Monitoring: Keep an eye on the glaze while simmering to prevent burning and ensure it’s thick and flavorful.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to swap apples with pears or cherries for a unique spin on this cranberry glazed chicken.
Optional Searing: If short on time, skip the searing step, but know that it enhances the final dish’s flavor and texture.

What to Serve with Maple-Glazed Roast Chicken with Apples and Cranberries

Transform your meal into a comforting feast with delightful accompaniments that bring out the flavors of this roast chicken.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken, soaking up the rich maple glaze for a heartwarming experience.
Garlic Roasted Carrots: The natural sweetness and tender crunch of roasted carrots enhance the dish’s autumn vibes, adding vibrant color to your plate.
Quinoa Salad: A light, refreshing option that adds nutty flavor and a hint of crunch, making it a perfect counterpoint to the succulent chicken.
Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a pop of vibrant color and a satisfying snap, beautifully balancing the richer elements of the meal.
Wild Rice Pilaf: The earthy notes of wild rice create an inviting base, allowing the chicken’s sweet and savory glaze to shine even more.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with a crispy oat topping brings the meal full circle, echoing the flavors of the roasted apples.

Each of these pairings adds a unique touch, creating a delightful dining experience that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Cranberry Glazed Chicken Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own by adding delightful twists and substitutes that cater to your taste!

Fruit Swap: Substitute pears or cherries for apples to explore a different flavor profile. These fruits bring a similar sweetness while keeping things exciting.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the maple glaze for a delightful heat that complements the sweetness. It’s an unexpected but yummy twist!
Vinegar Change: Swap balsamic vinegar with pomegranate molasses for a deeper, fruitier flavor in your glaze. This change will elevate your dish to a whole new level!
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with thyme or sage in place of rosemary for a new aromatic experience that can completely alter the taste. Fresh herbs can delight the senses!
Cranberry Alternatives: If cranberries are out of season, use dried cranberries instead. Just rehydrate them in warm water for 10 minutes. Their sweet and tangy profile works beautifully here!
Sweetener Switch: Replace maple syrup with honey for a different kind of sweetness. Honey’s floral notes can add an incredible depth to the dish.
Texture Variance: Incorporate roasted carrots and sweet potatoes alongside the chicken for added sweetness and texture. They soak up all the delicious flavors!
Glaze Shortcut: If you’re short on time, simply drizzle a store-bought honey mustard sauce over your chicken before roasting. It creates a delightful glaze with minimal effort!

Feel free to check out my Parmesan Crockpot Chicken or Chicken Ramen Garlic for more tasty ideas! Each variation can help you create a unique dish that reflects your family’s taste preferences.

Make Ahead Options

These Maple-Glazed Roast Chicken with Apples and Cranberries are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken and prepare the fruits and herbs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the seasoned chicken thighs, sliced apples, cranberries, and rosemary in an airtight container to keep them fresh and flavorful. When you’re ready to cook, sear the chicken as directed and arrange the fruits around it before roasting. For added convenience, you can also make the maple glaze up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it and reheat gently before drizzling over the chicken. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal ready to serve with minimal effort!

Cranberry Glazed Chicken with Carrots & Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe apples for this recipe?
Selecting the right apples is key to achieving the best flavor in your Cranberry Glazed Chicken. I recommend using firmer varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala, which retain their texture during roasting and add a delightful sweetness. Look for apples that are vibrant in color without any soft spots or bruises to ensure they’re fresh and flavorful.

How should I store leftovers of the cranberry glazed chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover cranberry glazed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to preserve freshness. When reheating, do so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.

Can I freeze cranberry glazed chicken for later use?
Yes, you can freeze your cranberry glazed chicken for up to 3 months! To do this, ensure it is completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven as mentioned before to retain its juicy texture.

What should I do if the glaze is too runny?
If you find your maple glaze is too runny, don’t worry! Simply return it to the stove and let it simmer on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens to your desired consistency. If you prefer, you can also mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add it a teaspoon at a time to help thicken the glaze.

Is this cranberry glazed chicken recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very! This recipe is gluten-free since it primarily consists of chicken, fruits, and natural ingredients. However, always double-check the labels on any ingredients like balsamic vinegar or broth to ensure they meet your specific dietary needs. If cooking for pets, like dogs, ensure there’s no excessive seasoning or ingredients they shouldn’t have, such as garlic.