Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken Recipe

Name: Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds); 2 cups fresh cranberries; 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted) or olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped); 2 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Published: December 4, 2025

by Mahdibrs

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken is super easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
The flavor profile is a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Visually stunning with its rich colors, it’s sure to steal the spotlight at any dinner table.
Plus, this dish is versatile enough for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners.

Ingredients for Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Whole Chicken: A 4-5 pound whole chicken works best for roasting; look for one with firm skin and no blemishes.
Fresh Cranberries: Use tart, fresh cranberries for that vibrant flavor; frozen ones can work in a pinch.
Pure Maple Syrup: Opt for real maple syrup instead of imitation for an authentic sweetness.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; feel free to use olive oil if you’re looking to keep it lighter.
Fresh Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): Fresh herbs really elevate the dish; look for bright green leaves without any browning.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring warmth and depth; choose heads that feel firm and heavy.

For the Sauce:

Balsamic Vinegar: A touch of balsamic vinegar deepens the sauce’s flavor; go for quality over quantity here.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a roasting pan or a large baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Rinse your whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper inside and out—don’t be shy, this is where flavor begins!

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine fresh cranberries, pure maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, melted butter, and chopped herbs. Stir until everything is well mixed—it should smell divine!

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Place the chicken breast-side up in your prepared roasting pan. Pour half of the cranberry-maple mixture over it; make sure it’s well-coated because nobody likes a bland bird.

Step 5: Roast Away

Pop that beauty into your preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). Every so often, baste it with the juices from the bottom of the pan—this ensures crispy skin!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once done, let your chicken rest for about ten minutes before carving. Transfer to plates and drizzle with leftover cranberry-maple sauce for that finishing touch.

And there you have it—a meal that not only fills your belly but warms your heart! Enjoy every bite of this Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken as you bask in compliments from friends and family alike!

You Must Know

This delightful cranberry maple roast chicken is not only a feast for the taste buds, but it also transforms your kitchen into a wonderland of aromas.
Perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings, this dish is sure to impress without a ton of fuss.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your chicken in the cranberry maple mixture while preheating your oven. Next, sear the chicken skin-side down for crispy perfection. Finally, roast it in the oven until golden brown and succulent, all while enjoying the mouthwatering scents wafting through your home.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor. You can also experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of sage, or add a dash of cinnamon for a warm twist.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover cranberry maple roast chicken, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—this keeps the skin crispy and juicy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always let the chicken rest after roasting; this helps retain its juices.
Don’t skip marinating time; even 30 minutes makes a difference!
And remember, high-quality maple syrup brings out the best flavors!

My friend once proclaimed this dish as “the love child of Thanksgiving and Sunday dinner,” after I served it at a gathering. It was delightful to see everyone going back for seconds, their faces glowing with happiness!

FAQs:

What are the main ingredients for Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken?

To make delicious Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken, you’ll need a whole chicken, fresh cranberries, maple syrup, garlic, rosemary, and olive oil. Each of these ingredients brings a unique flavor profile to the dish. The sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly balances the tartness of the cranberries, creating a delightful glaze that caramelizes as it cooks. You can also add salt and pepper for seasoning to enhance the overall taste.

How long does it take to cook Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken?

Cooking Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). The cooking time may vary based on the size of the chicken. A good rule of thumb is to roast the chicken for approximately 20 minutes per pound. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I prepare Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken ahead of time. Marinate the chicken with the cranberry mixture for several hours or overnight in your refrigerator for enhanced flavors. On cooking day, simply take it out, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting, and then follow your cooking instructions. This method saves you time on busy days while still delivering a flavorful meal.

What side dishes pair well with Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken?

Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts or creamy mashed potatoes to complement its rich flavors. A fresh green salad or wild rice pilaf adds a nice contrast as well. These sides not only enhance your meal but also create a colorful presentation on your dining table.

Planning your weekly menu? Browse these dinner recipe ideas for more delicious inspiration.

Conclusion for Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken:

Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken combines sweet and savory elements to create a memorable dish perfect for any occasion. By using simple yet flavorful ingredients like cranberries and maple syrup, you elevate a classic roast chicken into something special. With straightforward cooking instructions and versatility in pairing options, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate—try making this dish today!

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