Mediterranean Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake

by

Mediterranean Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake

with Caramelized Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Potato, Butternut Squash, Carrot Feta, Walnuts & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Description

This Mediterranean Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake is a vibrant one-pan meal that blends tender, oven-roasted chicken with caramelized Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash. Finished with a glossy cranberry-honey glaze, crunchy walnuts, and salty feta, it strikes a beautiful balance between sweet, savory, tangy, and earthy flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or festive gatherings.

Servings

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour

Ingredients

Chicken & Vegetables

  • 4 chicken breasts or thighs (boneless or bone-in)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved

  • 1½ cups diced sweet potato

  • 1½ cups diced butternut squash

  • 1 cup sliced carrots

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cranberry-Honey Glaze

  • ½ cup fresh or dried cranberries

  • 3 tablespoons honey

  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

  • ¼ cup chicken broth or water

Toppings

  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted

  • â…“ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan.

  2. Prepare Vegetables
    In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts, sweet potato, butternut squash, and carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. Spread evenly in the baking dish.

  3. Season Chicken
    Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Nestle the chicken among the vegetables.

  4. Bake (First Round)
    Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring vegetables halfway through for even caramelization.

  5. Make the Glaze
    While baking, combine cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon (if using), and broth in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring until cranberries soften and the sauce thickens slightly.

  6. Glaze & Finish Baking
    Remove the dish from the oven. Spoon cranberry-honey glaze generously over the chicken. Return to the oven and bake another 15–20 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

  7. Add Toppings & Serve
    Sprinkle walnuts and feta over the dish. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Tips for Best Results

  • Thighs = Juicier: Chicken thighs stay more tender, especially if reheating.

  • Extra Crisp Veggies: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

  • Sweeter Glaze: Add an extra tablespoon of honey.

  • Savory Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or ground cumin to the glaze.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 520–560 kcal

  • Protein: 38–42 g

  • Carbohydrates: 38–42 g

  • Fat: 24–28 g

  • Fiber: 7–9 g

  • Sugar: 18–22 g
    (Values vary based on cut of chicken and exact ingredient amounts.)

Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Supports muscle repair and satiety.

  • Antioxidant-Rich: Cranberries and Brussels sprouts help fight inflammation.

  • Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil and walnuts provide beneficial omega-3s.

  • Gut & Immune Support: Fiber-rich vegetables aid digestion and immunity.

  • Balanced Meal: Includes protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs in one dish.

Recipe Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything except the glaze, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake and glaze fresh.

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
You can, but roast them separately first to remove excess moisture.

Q: What can I substitute for feta?
Goat cheese, ricotta salata, or shaved parmesan work well.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes—just ensure your Dijon mustard is gluten-free.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely. Simply omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

Leave a Comment