Are you tired of boring, repetitive meals that leave you uninspired? Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this mouthwatering Cranberry Balsamic Sheet Pan Chicken that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in one incredible dish! This recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will have your family begging for seconds and your dinner guests wondering how you became such a kitchen genius.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Trim and halve Brussels sprouts, removing any discolored outer leaves. Place Brussels sprouts on the sheet pan and drizzle with a small amount of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange chicken thighs on the sheet pan, skin-side up, surrounded by Brussels sprouts. Scatter fresh cranberries across the pan.
- Pour the balsamic honey mixture evenly over the chicken, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme or chopped parsley before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden-brown skin that will make your mouth water.
- Use fresh cranberries for the best burst of flavor and natural sweetness. Frozen cranberries can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
- Don't overcrowd the sheet pan - give your ingredients some space to ensure even roasting and perfect caramelization.
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check chicken doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting to elevate the dish's aromatic profile.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the balsamic honey mixture in a small saucepan before drizzling over the chicken.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
