Description
This elegant Cranberry Maple Roast Chicken features a whole bird roasted to perfection with golden, crispy skin and incredibly juicy meat. The natural tartness of fresh cranberries paired with the deep, earthy sweetness of pure maple syrup creates a sophisticated glaze. Perfect for festive holiday gatherings or a special weekend family dinner, this gourmet-level dish is simple to prepare yet delivers complex, aromatic flavors that will impress any guest.
Ingredients
5-10 lbs organic whole chicken
1/2 cup salted butter, softened
2 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil
2 tsps smoked paprika
1 1/2 cups pure maple syrup
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/2 cup unsweetened cranberry juice
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 lemon, halved
1 small onion, quartered
3 garlic cloves
1 cup chicken stock
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a large roasting pan.
Clean the chicken, remove giblets, rinse, and pat completely dry.
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, olive oil, smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
Massage the butter mixture under and over the chicken skin.
Stuff the chicken cavity with lemon halves, onion quarters, and garlic cloves.
Place the chicken in the roasting pan, pour in chicken stock, and roast for 60 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices.
In a saucepan, simmer maple syrup, cranberries, cranberry juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until the berries burst and the sauce thickens.
Brush the cranberry-maple glaze over the bird during the final 30 minutes of roasting.
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit before removing from the oven.
Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving to retain maximum juices.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. If the skin browns too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 90
- Category: Chicken Recipes
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Modern American