Cranberry Glazed Chicken with Carrots & Sweet Potatoes Recipe

In my kitchen, this Cranberry Glazed Chicken with Carrots and Sweet Potatoes always brings smiles around the dinner table. It’s colorful, packed with flavor, and the kind of dish that feels special without being overly complicated. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests, this recipe combines the sweet tang of cranberries with the hearty goodness of chicken and vegetables, making it a staple for any seasonal gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Cooking at home can be a joy, especially when you whip up a dish that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, nutritious, and delicious! This Cranberry Glazed Chicken is not only a feast for the eyes, but it also balances savory and sweet notes effortlessly. It’s especially great for fall and winter dinners, where you can cozy up with a warm meal.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Preparing Cranberry Glazed Chicken with Carrots & Sweet Potatoes Recipe

This recipe comes together seamlessly, involving a few simple steps that yield exquisite results. You’ll be roasting tender chicken alongside vibrant vegetables, all coated in a homemade cranberry glaze. Let’s dive into the ingredients before we get cooking!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Feel free to swap honey for maple syrup to suit your taste, or adjust the veggies based on your favorites!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a delicious cranberry-glazed chicken dinner:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Place the carrots and sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and toss until evenly coated. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Cook over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a glaze. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub them with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken on the same baking sheet as the vegetables, leaving space around each piece.
5. Brush a generous amount of the cranberry glaze over each chicken breast, reserving some for serving later.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with any remaining cranberry glaze and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This vibrant dish is lovely plated simply with the chicken on top of the roasted vegetables. Pair it with a light salad or your favorite grain like quinoa or rice. A glass of white wine echos the sweetness of the cranberries beautifully.

How to Store

To keep your Cranberry Glazed Chicken leftovers fresh, follow these tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking for the right internal temperature guarantees juicy chicken.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your veggies room to caramelize and get wonderfully crisp.
3. Glaze Twice: For an extra punch of flavor, brush more glaze on halfway through roasting.
4. Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but a touch of freshness to every bite.

Creative Twists

Here are some variations to personalize this dish:

• Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to the glaze for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy Addition: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the glaze.
• Nutty Texture: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts with the vegetables for added crunch.

Nutrition Table

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
per serving	375	34 g	45 g	10 g	7 g	18 g

Enjoy the delightful flavors of this cranberry glazed chicken! It’s a dish that truly brings joy to any table, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends. Happy cooking!