Welcome to a deliciously comforting recipe that’s sure to warm up your kitchen and hearts! This Savory Roasted Chicken with Apples and Cranberries combines the juicy, tender flavors of a whole roasted chicken with the fresh sweetness of apples and tart cranberries, creating a stunning centerpiece for any meal. If you’re looking to add a cozy, fall-inspired dish to your table, look no further. Let’s dive into this fantastic Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken recipe!
Introduction
The Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken brings together the best of autumn flavors in one hearty, soul-soothing dish. A classic in many seasonal gatherings, this recipe highlights tender, juicy chicken infused with the flavors of sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and fragrant thyme. Roasting apples and cranberries alongside the chicken adds a naturally sweet, lightly caramelized touch to each bite. This Savory Roasted Chicken with Apples and Cranberries is the perfect recipe for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion calling for a special meal.
Ingredients for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken
To make this Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds), cleaned and patted dry
- 4 large apples, cored and quartered (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended for best flavor)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, rinsed and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, or 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Substitutions:
- For a sweeter touch, try using maple syrup instead of honey.
- Chicken thighs or breasts can be used instead of a whole chicken; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Substitute fresh rosemary for thyme for an earthy, aromatic twist.
How to Make Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken – Step by Step
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on How to make Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures an even, golden roast for the chicken.
2: Prepare the Honey Mustard Mixture
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tip: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra tangy flavor.
3: Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a large roasting pan, pat it dry, and brush half of the honey mustard mixture evenly over the chicken, coating it thoroughly.
4: Arrange the Apples and Cranberries
- Arrange the apple quarters and fresh cranberries around the chicken in the roasting pan. Drizzle the remaining honey mustard mixture over the apples and cranberries, coating them for extra flavor.
5: Roast the Chicken
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is golden brown.
Tip: Baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through cooking for a moist, flavorful finish.
6: Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted apples and cranberries for a beautifully balanced meal.
Helpful Tips for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken
- Season Generously: Ensure that the honey mustard mixture is well-seasoned for optimal flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add rosemary or sage for a twist on the traditional flavor.
Cooking Tips for the Best Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken
For achieving a perfect Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken, try these tips:
- Roast at the Right Temperature: Roasting at 375°F helps cook the chicken evenly, avoiding dryness.
- Caramelize the Apples: Allow the apples to caramelize slightly for added sweetness.
- Choose Apples Carefully: Varieties like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith maintain structure when roasted, giving both sweet and tart flavors.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken
Pair this Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken with a few side dishes to create a full, harmonious meal:
- Mashed Potatoes or Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These classic sides pair wonderfully with the savory, fruity flavors.
- Buttered Green Beans or Brussels Sprouts: Add a green veggie side to balance the meal.
- Cranberry Sauce: Enhance the cranberry flavors with a spoonful of homemade cranberry sauce.
Suggested Beverages: A crisp apple cider or a light white wine like Chardonnay pairs beautifully with this dish.
Nutritional Information
The Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken provides a nutritious, balanced meal that’s rich in protein, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Fats: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Vitamin C: 20% DV
- Iron: 15% DV
Storage and Leftovers for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken
To store and reheat Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken:
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Remove chicken meat from the bones, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm the chicken and roasted fruit in a preheated oven at 300°F until thoroughly heated, or reheat in a microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Tip: For best flavor, drizzle a little fresh olive oil or honey over the chicken before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken
Q1: Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes! Substitute bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts, adjusting the cooking time to 45-60 minutes at 375°F.
Q2: Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! Just add the frozen cranberries directly to the pan without thawing.
Q3: How can I tell if the chicken is done without a thermometer?
The chicken juices should run clear, not pink, when pierced. The leg should also move easily in the joint.
Q4: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! Prepare the honey mustard mixture and marinate the chicken a few hours ahead. Store it in the fridge until ready to roast.
Related Recipes for Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken Lovers
Looking for more delicious dishes similar to Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken? Here are some recommendations from Optimal Recipes:
Conclusion
Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey with Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken! This recipe is a heartwarming, flavorful addition to any menu, blending the tender roastiness of chicken with the seasonal joy of apples and cranberries. Give this dish a try and bring a touch of autumn warmth to your table. Don’t forget to share your thoughts, variations, and tips in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!
Print
Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken – Easy Dinner Recipe
Description
Welcome to a deliciously comforting recipe that’s sure to warm up your kitchen and hearts! This Savory Roasted Chicken with Apples and Cranberries combines the juicy, tender flavors of a whole roasted chicken with the fresh sweetness of apples and tart cranberries, creating a stunning centerpiece for any meal. If you’re looking to add a cozy, fall-inspired dish to your table, look no further. Let’s dive into this fantastic Apple Cranberry Roasted Chicken recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 pounds), cleaned and patted dry
- 4 large apples, cored and quartered (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended for best flavor)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, rinsed and patted dry
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, or 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Substitutions:
- For a sweeter touch, try using maple syrup instead of honey.
- Chicken thighs or breasts can be used instead of a whole chicken; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Substitute fresh rosemary for thyme for an earthy, aromatic twist.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures an even, golden roast for the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Honey Mustard Mixture
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tip: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for an extra tangy flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a large roasting pan, pat it dry, and brush half of the honey mustard mixture evenly over the chicken, coating it thoroughly.
Step 4: Arrange the Apples and Cranberries
- Arrange the apple quarters and fresh cranberries around the chicken in the roasting pan. Drizzle the remaining honey mustard mixture over the apples and cranberries, coating them for extra flavor.
Step 5: Roast the Chicken
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is golden brown.
Tip: Baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through cooking for a moist, flavorful finish.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted apples and cranberries for a beautifully balanced meal.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Season Generously: Ensure that the honey mustard mixture is well-seasoned for optimal flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add rosemary or sage for a twist on the traditional flavor.
