Save Succulent roast chicken thighs are infused with aromatic herbs and olive oil, then roasted with sweet-tart cranberries and root vegetables—all in one pan for an easy, festive meal.
I love how this recipe combines juicy chicken with vibrant vegetables and a burst of tangy cranberries, making every bite special.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Vegetables & Fruit: 1 red onion cut into wedges, 2 medium carrots peeled and sliced, 500 g (1 lb) baby potatoes halved, 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- Aromatics & Herbs: 3 garlic cloves minced, 2 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped (or 2 tsp dried), 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried), zest of 1 orange, juice of 1 orange
- Optional Garnish: Additional fresh herbs, orange slices
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, toss chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and orange zest.
- Step 3:
- Arrange onion wedges, carrots, and baby potatoes in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet or ovenproof dish. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Step 4:
- Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs among the vegetables skin side up.
- Step 5:
- Scatter cranberries over the pan and drizzle everything with orange juice.
- Step 6:
- Roast in the preheated oven for 40 45 minutes or until chicken skin is golden and juices run clear (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and vegetables are tender.
- Step 7:
- If desired broil for an additional 2 3 minutes for extra crispy skin.
- Step 8:
- Rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra herbs and orange slices before serving.
Save This dish brings my family together every holiday season with its comforting aroma and vibrant colors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal paired well with a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir.
Allergen Information
Contains no common allergens. Double-check packaged ingredients (e.g. spices) for hidden allergens if necessary.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 410, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 23 g.
Save This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion requiring an effortless yet impressive main dish.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken is best for roasting?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal as they stay juicy and develop crispy skin during roasting.
- → Can I substitute other vegetables?
Yes, root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips can be used for similar roast flavors and textures.
- → How do cranberries affect the flavor?
Cranberries add a tart, slightly sweet contrast that balances the richness of the chicken and herbs.
- → What cooking temperature ensures tender chicken?
Roasting at 425°F (220°C) crisps the skin while cooking the chicken evenly and keeping it moist.
- → Is it necessary to rest the chicken after roasting?
Resting for 5 minutes allows juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
- → How can I make the skin extra crispy?
Broiling the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking helps achieve an extra crispy and golden skin.