Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs / 1.8-2.3 kg), patted dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, quartered
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional)
For the Cranberry Glaze
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
Directions
This Spiced Cranberry Glazed Roast Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic roast, perfect for holiday dinners or any special occasion when you want to impress. The succulent whole chicken is rubbed with a fragrant blend of warm spices—cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and smoked paprika—that infuse the meat with cozy, aromatic flavors. As it roasts, the skin crisps up beautifully, locking in juicy tenderness inside.
The star of the dish is the luscious cranberry glaze, made by simmering fresh cranberries with orange juice, honey, and a hint of ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This glaze brings a tangy sweetness balanced with subtle spice, which caramelizes on the chicken’s skin during roasting, creating a glossy, flavorful coating that’s both vibrant and comforting.
Stuffed with fresh onions and herbs, this roast chicken delivers layers of flavor from inside and out. It’s a perfect centerpiece for festive tables, pairing wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish offers a beautiful balance of spice and sweetness that will delight everyone’s palate.
Here’s an approximate nutrition summary per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients, preparation methods, and portion sizes. Always consult a healthcare professional for specific dietary advice.
Steps
1 Done | Preheat the ovenPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). |
2 Done | Prepare the chickenRub the chicken all over with olive oil or melted butter. Season generously with salt, pepper, and the spices: cinnamon, allspice, cloves, smoked paprika. Rub minced garlic evenly over the chicken. Stuff the cavity with quartered onion and fresh herb sprigs if using. |
3 Done | Roast the chickenPlace the chicken breast side up on a roasting pan or baking dish. Roast for 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C) to start crisping the skin. |
4 Done | Make the cranberry glazeWhile the chicken roasts, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the glaze thickens (about 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly. |
5 Done | Glaze the chickenAfter the initial 20 minutes roasting, reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Brush the cranberry glaze generously over the chicken. Continue roasting for about 40-50 more minutes, basting every 15 minutes with more glaze, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C) and skin is beautifully caramelized. |
6 Done | Rest and serveRemove the chicken from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 10-15 minutes. Slice and serve with extra cranberry glaze on the side. |
7 Done | TipsIf using frozen cranberries, no need to thaw before cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. |
