Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken

Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken is a tasty dish that combines the sweetness of apples and cranberries with the savory flavor of roasted chicken. It’s a wonderful meal for family gatherings or special occasions.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it is simple, flavorful, and healthy. It gives a warm and comforting feeling, especially on cool days. Plus, the bright colors of the apples and cranberries make your meal look beautiful!

How to Make Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
2 cups apples, cored and quartered (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
1 onion, quartered
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large roasting pan, place the whole chicken and surround it with quartered apples, cranberries, and onion.
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Rub the seasonings into the skin of the chicken.
Pour in a little bit of water or chicken broth (about 1/2 cup) into the bottom of the pan to keep the chicken moist.
Roast in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
Baste the chicken occasionally with the pan juices to keep it flavorful and moist.
Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted apples and cranberries.

How to Serve Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken

Serve the chicken hot, sliced and placed on a platter with the roasted apples and cranberries. You can also add some green vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the apples and cranberries with it. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you are ready to eat again.

Tips to Make Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken

Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning for crispier skin.
Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done.
Try different types of apples for a unique flavor.

Variation (If Any)

You can add other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes to the roasting pan for extra flavor and nutrition. Feel free to mix in different herbs, like sage or oregano, to try new tastes.