Description
This Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken is a flavorful blend of savory and sweet, featuring juicy roasted chicken with apples, cranberries, and warm spices. The apple cider glaze adds moisture and caramelized richness, making it a perfect dish for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
- ½ cup apple cider or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a roasting pan.
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry and place it in the pan.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Rub seasonings all over, including under the skin for extra flavor.
-
Add Apples & Cranberries:
- Scatter sliced apples, cranberries, minced garlic, and onion around the chicken.
- Pour apple cider and honey (or maple syrup) over the ingredients for added moisture and sweetness.
-
Roast the Chicken:
- Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Baste with pan juices halfway through cooking.
-
Rest & Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme and serve with roasted apples, cranberries, and onions.
Notes
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for heat.
- Citrus Flavor: Add orange zest or fresh orange slices for a citrusy contrast.
- Herb Butter: Rub chicken with a mix of butter, rosemary, and thyme for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
