Discover the Best Cranberry Chicken Bake for Your Dinner Table

Get ready to elevate your dinner table with the tantalizing Cranberry Chicken Bake! This irresistible dish is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and seasonal flavors, making it a must-try for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or preparing a holiday feast, this Cranberry Chicken Bake is sure to delight your guests and have them coming back for seconds.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Cranberry Chicken Bake

• 3 to 4 pounds bone‑in, skin‑on chicken pieces (e.g., thighs and/or breasts)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey)
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
• Optional garnish: fresh rosemary sprigs or chopped parsley

The Nutritional Benefits of Cranberry Chicken Bake

The Cranberry Chicken Bake is a fantastic dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a nutritional boost. The combination of bone-in chicken, fresh or frozen cranberries, and a variety of herbs and spices makes this recipe a well-rounded meal. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while cranberries are rich in antioxidants and can help support a healthy immune system. The maple syrup or honey adds a touch of natural sweetness, and the orange juice and zest provide a refreshing citrus note to balance the flavors.

Preparing the Cranberry Chicken Bake

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delectable Cranberry Chicken Bake:

Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish or rimmed oven‑safe skillet. This will help ensure your chicken bakes evenly and the cranberry sauce doesn’t stick to the pan.

Season the Chicken

Next, it’s time to give the chicken a flavor boost. Pat the chicken pieces dry, then rub them generously with olive oil. Sprinkle on the salt, pepper, chopped rosemary, thyme, garlic, and orange zest. If you’re looking for a bit of a kick, go ahead and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Arrange the Cranberries and Liquids

In the prepared baking dish, scatter the fresh or frozen cranberries. Then, pour the orange juice and maple syrup (or honey) over the cranberries, allowing them to start softening and releasing their tangy-sweet juices.

Place the Chicken

Now, nestle the seasoned chicken pieces, skin-side up, among the cranberries in the dish. This arrangement will allow the chicken to bake to perfection while the cranberries create a delectable sauce.</

Baking the Cranberry Chicken Bake

With everything in place, it’s time to let the oven work its magic. Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces. You’ll know the chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cranberries have burst, creating a tangy-sweet sauce.

Serving the Cranberry Chicken Bake

Once the Cranberry Chicken Bake is out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Then, spoon the cranberry sauce over the chicken pieces, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or chopped parsley, and serve hot.

The Cranberry Chicken Bake pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. It’s a truly festive and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of the Cranberry Chicken Bake is its versatility. While the recipe calls for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, you can easily substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs if desired. For a vegetarian option, try swapping the chicken for firm tofu or plant-based protein sources.

If you don’t have fresh or frozen cranberries on hand, you can use dried cranberries instead. Just keep in mind that dried cranberries are sweeter, so you may want to reduce the amount of maple syrup or honey in the recipe to balance the flavors.

Feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles as well. Try adding a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of apple cider for a warm, cozy twist. The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating your own unique spin on the Cranberry Chicken Bake.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of the Cranberry Chicken Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat the chicken and sauce in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

If you find that the sauce has thickened too much during storage, simply add a splash of orange juice or water to thin it out and restore the desired consistency.

FAQs about Cranberry Chicken Bake

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen cranberries?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries in a Cranberry Chicken Bake, but there are a few adjustments to consider. Dried cranberries are sweeter and less tart than fresh or frozen ones, so you may want to reduce the amount of maple syrup or honey in the recipe to balance the flavors. Additionally, since dried cranberries won’t burst and release juices during baking, you might want to soak them in warm water or orange juice for about 30 minutes beforehand to plump them up and enhance their flavor.

How can I adjust the recipe for a slow cooker?

To adapt the Cranberry Chicken Bake for a slow cooker, first season the chicken as directed, then place it in the slow cooker along with the cranberries and sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep in mind that the texture will differ slightly from oven baking, and you may want to thicken the sauce towards the end of cooking by removing the lid for the last 30 minutes or adding a cornstarch slurry.

Can I make Cranberry Chicken Bake gluten-free?

Absolutely! The Cranberry Chicken Bake is naturally gluten-free as none of the main ingredients contain gluten. Just ensure that any additional ingredients you might use, like sauces or seasonings, are certified gluten-free. This dish is a great option for those with gluten sensitivities, and it can be enjoyed by everyone at the table without any worry.

What are some tips for pairing wine with Cranberry Chicken Bake?

When pairing wine with Cranberry Chicken Bake, consider a medium-bodied white wine such as a Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir. The fruity and slightly sweet flavors of the dish complement the acidity and fruitiness in these wines. If you prefer a sweeter wine, a Riesling can also work well. Ultimately, choose a wine that you enjoy, as personal preference plays a significant role in a successful pairing.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
• Million Dollar BBQ Bacon Cheese Dip
• Loaded Cheeseburger Bacon Fry Casserole

Get ready to savor the flavors of the season with this irresistible Cranberry Chicken Bake. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a delicious and comforting meal, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and leave your family and friends thoroughly impressed. Enjoy!

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

Print