Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of One Pan Rosemary Chicken Thighs with Cranberry Sauce. The scent of fresh rosemary dances in the air as juicy, tender chicken thighs sizzle alongside a vibrant, tangy cranberry sauce. A dish that smells this good is bound to lift your spirits and make your taste buds sing.
This delightful recipe isn’t just about flavors and aromas; it’s woven into my family gatherings where laughter mingles with delicious food. I remember preparing this dish for a holiday dinner, and watching my family’s faces light up with anticipation was priceless. With its stunning presentation and harmonious blend of sweet and savory, it’s perfect for celebrations or cozy weeknight dinners.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This one-pan wonder simplifies meal prep while delivering bold flavors that impress everyone at the table
- The enticing colors make it a feast for the eyes too
- Versatile enough to serve on any occasion, it pairs well with various sides to accommodate picky eaters
- You’ll love how little cleanup is required, leaving you more time to enjoy your delicious creation!
I made this dish for my friends last month, and their delighted reactions were priceless—especially when they went back for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: These provide rich flavor and juicy tenderness; opt for organic if available
- Fresh Rosemary: Look for vibrant green sprigs; nothing beats the freshness of herbs from your garden or local market
- Cranberry Sauce: Use homemade if you can; otherwise, a high-quality store-bought version will work just fine
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh cloves are best; avoid pre-minced garlic to enhance the dish’s flavor profile
- Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor; perfect for searing those chicken thighs
- Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors in this dish
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; avoid bottled versions for maximum freshness
- Chicken Broth: Provides moisture during cooking; low-sodium varieties allow better control over saltiness
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make One Pan Rosemary Chicken Thighs with Cranberry Sauce
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large oven-safe skillet or pan and drizzle some olive oil in it. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Brown those chicken thighs skin-side down in the heated skillet for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them over gently and let them cook for another 5 minutes on the other side.
Add minced garlic and fresh rosemary around the chicken in the pan—watch as they release their fragrant oils into the air! Pour in your cranberry sauce along with a splash of chicken broth and lemon juice, creating a beautiful medley of flavors.
Transfer your skillet carefully to the preheated oven. Let everything bake together for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender enough to fall off the bone.
Once it’s done baking, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This step allows those juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is incredibly juicy!
Serve hot from the pan with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes or roasted veggies work wonders! Enjoy every flavorful bite as you bask in your culinary achievement!
You Must Know
- One Pan Rosemary Chicken Thighs with Cranberry Sauce offers a delightful mix of savory and sweet
- The aroma fills your kitchen, making all who enter feel at home
- Pairing the crispy chicken with tart cranberries creates a meal that’s visually appealing and utterly delicious
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken thighs skin-side down for crispy perfection. While they cook, prepare the cranberry sauce to infuse flavors seamlessly. Finally, combine everything in one pan to finish cooking.
Add Your Touch
Try swapping cranberries for cherries or adding garlic and onion for depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or sage can elevate flavors even more. Don’t hesitate to experiment and personalize the dish!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to maintain juiciness without drying out the chicken.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F at the thickest part
- Always let your chicken rest before cutting to seal in juices
- Experiment with seasonal vegetables alongside for a complete meal with minimal effort
I once whipped up this dish for friends on a chilly evening, and their smiles were priceless as they savored every bite, asking for seconds!
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster but still deliver great flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the cranberry sauce for a fiery kick.
What should I serve with One Pan Rosemary Chicken Thighs with Cranberry Sauce?
Pair it with roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
One Pan Rosemary Chicken Thighs with Cranberry Sauce
One Pan Rosemary Chicken Thighs with Cranberry Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a tangy cranberry sauce and aromatic rosemary. Perfect for any occasion, this one-pan wonder not only simplifies meal prep but also delivers impressive flavors that will delight your family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to lift spirits and satisfy your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (preferably homemade)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Sear skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and rosemary to the pan, then pour in the cranberry sauce, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Stir gently.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving hot with your favorite sides.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (180g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Substitute cranberries with cherries for a different flavor profile. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently.
