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Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken – Flavorful & Festive Dinner

benjamen_scott
Published : November 13, 2025

Juicy chicken thighs, tart cranberries, and fragrant rosemary combine in this gorgeous one-pan dish.

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe. Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken is not only visually stunning with its vibrant colors, but it also wraps you in a warm, comforting embrace as it fills your home with a delightful aroma. I remember making this for family gatherings, and almost instantly, everyone huddled around the table, captivated by the delicious smell. With just a handful of ingredients, this is a dish that will quickly become a weeknight favorite.

Delicious one pan Cranberry Rosemary Chicken dish with fresh ingredients

Why Should You Try Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken Now?

Did you know this recipe is a perfect representation of comforting seasonal flavors?

Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken is an exquisite dish to prepare right now, especially as the weather turns cooler. During autumn and winter, cranberries are abundant, and their tartness provides a perfect balance to the savory, hearty chicken thighs. Furthermore, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s easy to prepare, healthy, and incredibly flavorful, ideal for a family dinner or casual weekend entertaining. You can even pair it with some broccoli cheddar soup to complete the meal.

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If you're looking for a dish that bursts with flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen, you've stumbled upon the right recipe. Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken is not only visually stunning with its vibrant colors, but it also wraps you in a warm, comforting embrace as it fills your home with a delightful aroma. I remember making this for family gatherings, and almost instantly, everyone huddled around the table, captivated by the delicious smell. With just a handful of ingredients, this is a dish that will quickly become a weeknight favorite. cranberry rosemary one pan chicken

Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken

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Juicy chicken thighs infused with tart cranberries and fragrant rosemary in a simple one-pan dish.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 Chicken thighs
  • 1 cup Fresh cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 Onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add onions and garlic; cook until soft (3-4 minutes). Add cranberries, rosemary, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
  4. Return chicken to the skillet skin-side up. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Notes

For a healthier choice, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and serve over cauliflower rice for a keto option.

  • Author: Benjamin Scott
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

What Makes This Cranberry Rosemary Chicken Unique?

This recipe elevates a classic one-pan dish into something truly special.

Flavor Explosion

The combination of fresh cranberries and rosemary provides a unique flavor profile that dances on your taste buds. The tartness of cranberries complements the richness of chicken thighs like they were meant to be together. You won’t find many recipes that showcase cranberries in a savory context. This coupling of flavors is a refreshing change from more conventional chicken dishes.

Texture Delight

The skin of the chicken gets beautifully crisp while remaining juicy inside, thanks to the searing step before it enters the oven. This recipe also features tender onions, which caramelize beautifully in the pan, adding sweetness that pairs fantastically with the tartness of cranberries.

A Healthy Choice

Using rosemary not only ensures your dish is flavorful but also adds an array of health benefits, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Rosemary is known to enhance memory and concentration as well. This makes the dish not only delicious but also a functional part of your diet.

For more details on the health benefits of herbs, check this article.

If you’re excited about chicken recipes, try out this skillet chicken pot pie for another family favorite.

What Ingredients Do You Need For This Dish?

Gathering the right ingredients is key to a memorable meal.

IngredientQuantity
Chicken thighs4
Fresh cranberries1 cup
Fresh rosemary, chopped2 tablespoons
Olive oil2 tablespoons
Salt and pepperTo taste
Onion, sliced1
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Chicken broth1 cup

The crowning glory of this dish is undoubtedly the fresh cranberries. If you can’t find fresh ones, you may substitute with frozen cranberries, just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using. Fresh rosemary adds gorgeous aroma, but if you don’t have any on hand, dried rosemary will work in a pinch, just use about one teaspoon instead. Olive oil is a healthy fat that aids in cooking while creating a lovely golden crust on the chicken.

If you’re looking for more ways to introduce healthy ingredients to your meals, consider this high protein cucumber salad.

How to Make Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken Step-by-Step?

Follow these steps to bring this delightful dish to your table effortlessly.

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper generously.

Step 2

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Flip them over and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the fresh cranberries, rosemary, and chicken broth, stirring to combine.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Storage3-4 days in the fridge

Place the chicken back into the skillet, skin side up, and transfer the entire skillet to the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Don’t you just love how simple it is to make a stunning meal? Looking for more chicken recipes? Check out my easy chicken bruschetta summer dinner!

Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken with golden chicken, red cranberries, and fresh rosemary in a skillet.

How Can You Customize and Serve This Recipe?

There are endless ways to personalize this dish for your taste and dietary needs.

Diet Swap

If you’re following a keto diet, consider swapping the chicken broth for vegetable broth and serving this dish over steamed cauliflower rice. This change not only maintains the integrity of the dish but also makes it compliant with low-carb eating.

Flavor Variation

For a slight twist on flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice or zest along with the cranberries. The hint of citrus elevates the dish to a bright and fresh level that’s perfect for a spring meal. Check out my baked brie with honey and figs for a great appetizer to pair with this dish.

Serving Idea

This dish is perfect served over a bed of wild rice or alongside a fresh green salad. It’s a great centerpiece for family gatherings and holiday dinners!

Suggested PairingsTip
Mashed potatoesThey’re creamy and comforting alongside the chicken.
Steamed asparagusA crisp, colorful side that’s packed with nutrients.

Final Thoughts

In closing, Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also fills the heart with warmth. Whether you’re cooking it for family or friends, this recipe is bound to make everyone feel special. Use the leftovers for a quick lunch, or store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and take the plunge into the delicious world of chicken and cranberry, your palate will thank you! If you love this recipe, share your culinary journey with others on Pinterest by clicking here.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, frozen chicken thighs can be used for this recipe. Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. It’s important to ensure they are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

What can I substitute for fresh cranberries?

If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen cranberries can be a good substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before using them. Alternatively, you could use dried cranberries, but reduce the quantity as they are sweeter.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free, as none of the ingredients contain dairy. Ensure any sides accompanied with the meal are also dairy-free to maintain dietary preferences.

How long does this dish keep in the refrigerator?

Cranberry Rosemary One Pan Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes to the pan before baking. Just ensure they are cut into similarly sized pieces to the onions for even cooking.

About the Author

benjamen_scott

Benjamin Scott is a CookMinutes recipe developer specializing in quick, flavorful, and time-saving meals. His clear, practical cooking style helps busy home cooks prepare delicious dishes with simple ingredients and minimal effort.

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