Save This festive cranberry-orange sheet pan chicken brings together the bright flavors of citrus and tart cranberries with perfectly roasted chicken thighs and caramelized Brussels sprouts. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity yet impressive presentation that makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
I first created this recipe when looking for a way to use up extra cranberries after Thanksgiving and it has since become our go to holiday season dinner. My children who once claimed to hate Brussels sprouts now eagerly help themselves to seconds when paired with this flavorful chicken.
Ingredients
- Bone in skin on chicken thighs: provide the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. The skin crisps up beautifully while protecting the meat from drying out
- Brussels sprouts halved: to ensure even caramelization. Look for firm bright green sprouts with tightly packed leaves for the freshest flavor
- Fresh or frozen cranberries: add a burst of tartness. Fresh will maintain their shape better but frozen work perfectly fine in a pinch
- Orange zest and juice: brings bright citrus notes that balance the richness of the chicken. Choose a heavy orange with smooth skin for maximum juice
- Honey: creates beautiful caramelization and balances the tartness of cranberries. Local raw honey adds the best flavor
- Dijon mustard: adds complexity and helps emulsify the marinade. The subtle heat pairs wonderfully with the sweet elements
- Fresh rosemary: provides earthy aromatic notes that complement the fruit. Strip the leaves from woody stems before chopping
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade:
- Whisk together olive oil honey Dijon mustard orange zest orange juice minced garlic chopped rosemary salt and pepper until well combined. This flavorful base infuses every component with bright zesty notes while the honey ensures beautiful caramelization
- Coat the chicken:
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow them to sit in the marinade for at least 5 minutes if time permits to maximize flavor absorption
- Arrange the chicken:
- Position the thighs skin side up on your prepared sheet pan ensuring they have adequate space between them. Proper spacing allows the heat to circulate and ensures crispy rather than steamed skin
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Toss Brussels sprouts red onion wedges and cranberries in the remaining marinade making sure every piece gets coated in the flavorful mixture. The residual marinade contains enough flavor to transform these simple vegetables into something extraordinary
- Arrange the pan:
- Distribute the vegetable mixture around the chicken thighs not on top to ensure everything cooks evenly. Spread in a single layer for maximum caramelization and flavor development
- Roast to perfection:
- Bake at 425°F for 30 to 35 minutes rotating the pan halfway through cooking. The high temperature creates beautifully crisp chicken skin while allowing the vegetables to caramelize at the edges
- Finish with a broil:
- For extra crispy chicken skin broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end watching carefully to prevent burning. This step elevates the dish from good to restaurant quality
- Rest and serve:
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to redistribute juices. Spoon the flavorful pan drippings over everything for an extra layer of flavor
Save Brussels sprouts are the unsung hero of this recipe. When roasted alongside the chicken they absorb all the beautiful flavors while caramelizing at the edges. My grandmother always said that people who claim to dislike Brussels sprouts have simply never had them prepared properly and this recipe proves her right every time.
Make Ahead Options
This dish can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance for even more convenience. Prepare the marinade and coat the chicken then store it covered in the refrigerator. About an hour before cooking remove from the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature then continue with the recipe as written. The flavors actually develop and improve with time making this an excellent option for entertaining.
Seasonal Adaptations
Winter version Use blood oranges for a more complex citrus flavor and add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the marinade for warmth
Spring variation Substitute asparagus for Brussels sprouts and add lemon instead of orange for brighter flavors
Summer twist Use boneless thighs reduce cooking time and add cherry tomatoes in place of cranberries for a lighter version
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with so many sides. For a complete meal serve alongside wild rice pilaf which soaks up the delicious pan juices. For a lighter option a simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice provides a peppery contrast to the sweet and savory chicken. During cooler months creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes make excellent accompaniments that complement the festive flavors.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your chicken skin isnt crisping properly ensure your oven is fully preheated and consider patting the skin dry before applying the marinade
For more evenly cooked Brussels sprouts make sure they are all similar in size cutting larger ones into quarters if necessary
If using frozen cranberries no need to thaw them first simply add them frozen to the pan
Save This sheet pan chicken thighs dinner is a flavorful and simple dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well. Reduce cooking time by about 5–10 minutes and check for doneness at 165°F.
- → What can I substitute for Brussels sprouts?
Try broccoli florets or halved baby potatoes. Adjust roasting time if using denser vegetables.
- → How do I get extra crispy chicken skin?
Broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end of roasting, watching closely to avoid burning.
- → Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Fresh or frozen cranberries are best for moisture. Dried cranberries can be used, but soak them first.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Wild rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes complement the flavors and balance the meal beautifully.
- → Is this meal suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Double-check packaged items to confirm they meet your needs.