Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
- 2 medium apples, cored and quartered
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth or apple cider (for moisture)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Step-by-Step Directions for Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to heat while you prepare the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, ensuring that the skin is as dry as possible. This will help the skin crisp up during roasting. Rub the olive oil over the chicken and season generously with salt and pepper, inside and out.
3. Stuff the Chicken
Stuff the cavity of the chicken with quartered apples, onions, and a handful of cranberries. Add the rosemary, thyme, and crushed garlic cloves as well. This aromatic stuffing will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor as it roasts.
4. Arrange the Roasting Pan
Place the remaining apples, cranberries, and onions around the chicken in the roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth or apple cider into the pan to ensure that the chicken stays moist during cooking.
5. Roast the Chicken
Place the pan in the oven and roast the chicken for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked at the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken every 30 minutes with the melted butter to enhance the flavor and ensure a golden, crispy skin.
6. Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier bird. Serve with the roasted apples, cranberries, and onions alongside.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
- Basting brush
- Kitchen twine (optional, to tie the legs)
- Cutting board and carving knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tips for Perfecting Your Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme make all the difference in this recipe, adding an earthy depth that dried herbs can’t quite replicate.
- Basting is Key: Don’t skip the basting! It keeps the chicken moist and gives the skin a beautiful golden hue.
- Apple Variety Matters: Use firm apples like Granny Smith for a tart bite, or Honeycrisp for a sweeter note. Softer apples may fall apart during cooking.
- Cooking Time Varies: The size of your chicken will affect the roasting time, so always check the internal temperature for doneness rather than relying solely on the clock.
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave, though the skin won’t be as crispy.
You can also shred the leftover chicken to use in sandwiches, salads, or soups. The roasted apples and cranberries make for a fantastic side to use in grain bowls or as a topping for pork chops.
Variations and Recipe Swaps
- Swap Cranberries for Other Fruits: If cranberries aren’t in season, you can swap them for dried cherries or even raisins for a different flavor profile.
- Use Different Herbs: Sage and oregano can replace rosemary and thyme if you prefer a slightly different herbaceous flavor.
- Add Root Vegetables: Want to bulk up this meal? Add carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips to the roasting pan for a hearty side dish.
- Try It With Turkey: This recipe works wonderfully with turkey, especially for smaller gatherings when a full bird might be too much. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Suggested Pairings
For a complete meal, pair your Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken with sides that complement its sweet-savory balance. Here are a few recommendations:
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The creaminess of mashed sweet potatoes pairs well with the tart cranberries and sweet apples.
- Green Beans with Almonds: A crisp vegetable side like green beans adds freshness and a nice contrast to the richness of the roasted chicken.
- Riesling or Pinot Noir: For wine lovers, a slightly sweet Riesling will balance out the tartness of the cranberries, while a light Pinot Noir brings a nice acidity to the meal.