Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken

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 (optional, for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large roasting pan or ovenproof dish to ensure the chicken and fruit don’t stick during roasting.

Step 2:
Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, as this helps the skin become crispy during roasting. Place the chicken breast-side up in the prepared roasting pan. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil to help the seasonings adhere. Then, season it generously with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Be sure to rub the seasoning all over the chicken, paying special attention to spreading some under the skin for maximum flavor.

Step 3:
Add Apples and Cranberries:
Surround the chicken with the sliced apples, cranberries, minced garlic, and quartered onion. The fruit and onions will roast alongside the chicken, releasing their juices and adding layers of flavor to the dish. Pour the apple cider (or chicken broth) into the roasting pan to keep the chicken moist while roasting. Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the apples and cranberries for added sweetness and caramelization.

Step 4:
Roast the Chicken:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. To ensure even cooking and keep the meat moist, baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through the roasting time. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. A meat thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy.

Step 5:
Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken has finished roasting, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. After resting, carve the chicken and serve it alongside the roasted apples, cranberries, and onions. For added presentation, garnish the dish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs. Don’t forget to spoon some of the flavorful pan juices over the chicken before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations:

• Vegetable Additions: You can add root vegetables like carrots or parsnips to the roasting pan for additional flavor and heartiness.
• Herb Substitutions: Fresh herbs like sage or parsley can be substituted for thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Cranberry Sauce: If you prefer more of a sauce, you can add extra apple cider and reduce the pan juices at the end to create a rich cranberry-apple glaze.

Cooking Note:

Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is crucial to avoid undercooking or overcooking the chicken. Resting the chicken is also essential for retaining moisture, so don’t skip this step.

Serving Suggestions:

This Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken pairs wonderfully with side dishes such as:

• Roasted or mashed sweet potatoes
• A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Wild rice or couscous for a hearty grain option
• Warm bread rolls to soak up the delicious pan juices

For beverages, consider serving this dish with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or a crisp apple cider to complement the fruity notes of the meal.

Tips:

• Basting: Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking to help keep it moist and flavorful.
• Skin Crisping: For extra crispy skin, brush the chicken with a bit more olive oil or melted butter halfway through the cooking process.
• Fruit Choice: Fresh apples work best, but firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are recommended as they hold up well to roasting. If using dried cranberries, consider soaking them in warm water or apple cider beforehand to plump them up.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 10g

FAQs:

1. Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or breasts instead of a whole chicken. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pieces. Chicken thighs or breasts will typically roast in 35-45 minutes.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.

3. What kind of apples are best for roasting?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well for roasting because they hold their shape and add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness to the dish.

4. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in place of fresh cranberries. You don’t need to thaw them; just add them directly to the roasting pan with the other ingredients.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, and once it reads 165°F (75°C), the chicken is ready.

Conclusion:

The Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a warm, comforting dish that brings people together with its inviting aromas and robust flavors. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet apples, and tart cranberries, all infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, makes this dish perfect for fall or holiday gatherings. With simple preparation steps and the option to add your variations, this roasted chicken will quickly become a go-to recipe for both special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the joy of sharing this delightful meal with your loved ones!