Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken

Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of roasted chicken with the sweet and tangy flavors of apples and cranberries. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday meal, this recipe delivers a juicy, tender chicken with a fragrant blend of herbs and fruit stuffing. The result is a stunning and easy-to-make roast that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken
• 1 apple, cored and sliced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
3. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the sliced apple and dried cranberries.
4. Place the seasoned chicken in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
7. Serve the roasted chicken with the apples and cranberries and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Citrus Twist: Add slices of orange or lemon to the cavity along with the apples and cranberries for a citrusy brightness.
• Stuffing Additions: Consider adding chopped onions, garlic, or fresh herbs like sage and parsley to the stuffing for more flavor.
• Glaze: Brush the chicken with a honey or maple glaze in the last 10 minutes of roasting to add a touch of sweetness and a glossy finish.
• Vegetable Sides: Roast some vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts, in the same pan with the chicken for an easy one-pan meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftover roasted chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
   While bone-in chicken works best for roasting, you can use boneless cuts like chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
   Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast or thigh.
3. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you may need to adjust the amount of sugar or add a little honey or maple syrup to balance the tartness.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   You can prepare the chicken by seasoning and stuffing it the night before, then roast it the next day. Make sure to keep it in the fridge until ready to cook.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
   Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad are excellent sides to serve with this flavorful roasted chicken.
6. Can I stuff the chicken with other fruits?
   Yes! Pears, peaches, or even figs can be great alternatives or additions to the apple and cranberry stuffing.
7. How long should I rest the chicken after roasting?
   Allow the chicken to rest for at least 10 minutes after roasting. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
8. What can I do with the leftover stuffing?
   You can enjoy the stuffing as a side dish, or use it in a salad or wrap for a unique leftover meal.
9. Can I roast the chicken at a higher temperature?
   You can increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for a crispier skin, but be sure to monitor the chicken to prevent overcooking.
10. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
    Yes, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Cook it on low for about 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Conclusion

Apple & Cranberry Roasted Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that pairs perfectly with fall and holiday flavors. The sweet and savory stuffing adds depth and richness to the roast, while the herbs infuse the chicken with delicious aromas. This recipe is perfect for a special family dinner, a holiday feast, or any time you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal. With minimal prep and hands-on time, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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