Save to Pinterest 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.
This recipe has quickly become a family favorite because it combines simplicity with rich flavors and festive ingredients.
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 to Pinterest This meal has brought many joyful family dinners filled with warmth and laughter around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a green salad to complement the dish perfectly.
Pairing
Pairs well with a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Additional Tips
Double-check all packaged ingredients like spices to ensure no hidden allergens for sensitive individuals.
Save to Pinterest This simple yet flavorful dish makes for a perfect cozy dinner any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken is best for roasting in this dish?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best as they remain juicy and develop crisp skin during roasting.
- → Can other vegetables be used instead of carrots and potatoes?
Yes, root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes can be great substitutes for variety and sweetness.
- → How do cranberries affect the flavor profile?
Cranberries add a bright, sweet-tart element that complements the savory herbs and rich chicken.
- → Is it necessary to broil the chicken at the end?
Broiling for a few minutes enhances skin crispiness but is optional depending on preferred texture.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Seasoning the chicken in advance helps deepen flavors, but roasting is best done fresh for optimal texture.