Description
Baked Cranberry Chicken with Rosemary combines juicy, tender chicken with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the fragrant aroma of fresh rosemary. This easy-to-prepare dish balances savory herbs with natural sweetness, resulting in a flavorful meal ideal for cozy family dinners any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs, skin-on or skinless
Cranberry Rosemary Glaze
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 tablespoons honey (natural)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberry rosemary glaze: In a small saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, honey (natural), minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of natural gelling agent. Cook over medium heat, stirring often until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens into a luscious glaze.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry and drizzle olive oil on both sides. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and chopped fresh rosemary leaves evenly over the chicken for a fragrant and flavorful base.
- Arrange chicken and glaze in baking dish: Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish and generously brush the cranberry rosemary glaze over each piece. Reserve some glaze for basting later.
- Bake until tender: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken uncovered for about 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Halfway through baking, baste the chicken with the remaining glaze to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Rest before serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
Notes
- Use fresh rosemary and cranberries for the best flavor and aroma.
- Choose chicken pieces of even size or cut larger pieces for uniform cooking.
- Allow the chicken to rest after baking to retain moisture.
- Baste with glaze multiple times during baking for enhanced flavor and shine.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid overcooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or thigh with glaze
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: baked chicken, cranberry chicken, rosemary chicken, healthy dinner, easy chicken recipe, gluten free chicken