Description
This Roasted Balsamic Chicken with Cranberries recipe offers a delightful balance of tangy balsamic vinegar, sweet honey, and fresh cranberries, paired perfectly with tender, juicy boneless chicken thighs and aromatic tarragon. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
- 4–6 sprigs tarragon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for coating baking sheet and onions)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Toss gently to combine. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse, or up to overnight for deeper marination.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) in preparation for roasting the chicken and vegetables.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Lightly coat a rimmed baking sheet with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the thinly sliced red onions in an even layer across the pan.
- Arrange Chicken and Add Ingredients: Place the marinated chicken thighs evenly spaced between the onions on the baking sheet. Pour any remaining marinade over the onions and chicken to enhance flavor. Scatter the cranberries over the top and place 4 to 6 sprigs of fresh tarragon over everything for an added aromatic touch.
- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when measured at the thickest part of the thigh using a meat thermometer.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately, enjoying the harmony of balsamic, sweet cranberries, and tender chicken.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight; however, 30 minutes is sufficient for a quick meal.
- If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw before adding to the baking sheet.
- Boneless chicken thighs are used here for quicker cooking and easier eating, but bone-in thighs can be substituted, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Fresh tarragon adds authentic flavor; if unavailable, substitute with fresh thyme or omit.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with onions and cranberries
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
