Name: Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake - Easy One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs or breasts, skin-on; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; salt to taste; black pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

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The Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake – Easy One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner brings all the flavors of a festive feast into a single, colorful pan. With juicy chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, and tart bursts of cranberry, it’s a cozy, flavorful main dish that captures the heart of autumn. Perfect for busy families, small gatherings, or anyone seeking the warmth of Thanksgiving without the stress, this comforting recipe delivers seasonal flair with minimal effort and cleanup. Whether you’re hosting a weeknight dinner or a casual holiday celebration, this Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake keeps things easy, delicious, and delightfully festive.

How This One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner Became a Family Tradition

Like many great recipes, the Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake was born out of a need for something comforting yet uncomplicated. One chilly November evening, while planning a scaled-down Thanksgiving for just a few close family members, the idea of combining golden roasted chicken with sweet potatoes and cranberries came to life. The first time the pan came out of the oven, the kitchen filled with the aroma of maple, herbs, and crispy-skinned chicken—it felt festive without the hours of preparation. From that moment on, it became a beloved family tradition.

Every fall, this Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake reappears on our table as a reminder that good food doesn’t require complicated steps or endless dishes. Its simplicity makes it special; one pan delivers flavor, color, and warmth. The sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully around the edges while the cranberries burst open, creating a glossy, tangy sauce that coats the tender chicken. Over the years, it has become more than just a recipe—it’s our family’s signal that the holiday season has arrived, a dish that feels both satisfying and sentimental.

What makes this Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake so irresistible is how it captures every note of a classic holiday feast within a single tray. It’s the ultimate One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner—earthy roasted vegetables, juicy chicken, and bright cranberry accents that bring contrast and balance. The blend of orange, deep red, and golden hues mirrors the colors of autumn leaves, making it as visually inviting as it is delicious.

Why This Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake Feels Like Thanksgiving in a Pan

This Thanksgiving Sheet Pan Meal delivers everything you crave from a traditional spread but with far less cleanup. Each ingredient contributes to the holiday magic: sweet potatoes offer cozy depth, while the cranberries provide that signature tang reminiscent of cranberry sauce. The herbs infuse the chicken with savory richness, evoking the comforting aroma of a classic Thanksgiving Dinner Chicken. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or enjoying a quiet evening, this one pan meal brings that unmistakable Thanksgiving feeling to your table—simple, hearty, and memorable.

Simple Ingredients for Big Thanksgiving Flavor

One of the best things about the Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake is how effortlessly it comes together using a handful of wholesome, seasonal ingredients. Everything you need can be found in most kitchens once fall arrives—savory chicken, hearty sweet potatoes, and tangy cranberries that make this dish unforgettable. Each element contributes to the rich color and deep flavor that make this One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner feel special enough for guests yet easy enough for a weeknight.

You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for more flavor, or boneless chicken breasts for lighter fare. Both work beautifully in this Thanksgiving Dinner Chicken recipe, as the juices mingle with the vegetables to create a naturally flavored sauce. Sweet potatoes, when roasted, caramelize slightly and pair perfectly with the cranberries’ burst of tartness, while maple syrup and herbs tie everything together into a savory-sweet balance.

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Chicken thighs or breasts	4 pieces	Skin-on for extra flavor; thighs stay juicier
Sweet potatoes	2 medium	Peeled and cubed evenly
Fresh cranberries	1 cup	Adds bright tartness
Maple syrup	2 tbsp	Optional for a hint of sweetness
Olive oil	2 tbsp	Helps brown the chicken and veggies
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)	2 tsp	Finely chopped for fragrance
Garlic cloves	2	Minced, for savory depth
Salt and black pepper	To taste	Season generously before roasting
Lemon zest	½ tsp	Optional, for a fresh lift before serving

Optional additions: Chopped pecans for crunch or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to amplify the depth of flavor. Nothing about this Thanksgiving Sheet Pan Meal needs fuss—each ingredient supports the others to produce comforting, balanced bites with little effort.

Step-by-Step Method for the Perfect One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This mid‑high heat ensures both the chicken and vegetables roast evenly and achieve a beautiful golden color.
Prepare the ingredients: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into 1‑inch cubes so they cook at the same rate as the chicken. Rinse the cranberries, pat them dry, and set aside. Mince the garlic and finely chop the herbs.
Assemble on a baking sheet: Use a large sheet pan or shallow roasting pan. Scatter the sweet potatoes evenly over the bottom, toss them with olive oil, a hint of salt, and some of the herbs. Nestle the chicken pieces among the vegetables. Sprinkle cranberries on top.
Season and drizzle: Whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, garlic, and herbs. Drizzle evenly over the entire pan, then season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
Roast to perfection: Place the pan in the oven and roast for 30–35 minutes. Midway, stir the vegetables and baste the chicken with pan juices for crispy, juicy results.
Check for doneness: Chicken is ready at 165°F (74°C). For extra color, broil 2–3 minutes at the end.
Serve straight from the pan: Bring the sheet directly to the table and garnish with herbs or fresh cranberries. It makes a striking presentation for any One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner.

Pat chicken dry before seasoning for crispier skin.
Line the pan with parchment or foil for easier cleanup.
If cranberries are very tart, toss them with a teaspoon of maple syrup before roasting.
Swap sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a twist on this Thanksgiving Sheet Pan Meal.

Creative Ways to Serve a One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

One of the greatest advantages of this Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake is its versatility. Because it’s already a balanced dish full of protein, vegetables, and festive flavor, you can elevate it with just a few simple sides for a complete One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner.

For a classic holiday touch, pair it with crisp green beans or a light kale salad tossed with apple slices and toasted nuts. Soft dinner rolls or cornbread make perfect companions to soak up the pan juices, making your One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner even more satisfying. For a pop of color, sprinkle parsley or rosemary on top right before serving. The green contrast highlights the warm orange and red tones beautifully.

This Thanksgiving Sheet Pan Meal also works wonderfully for brunches or potlucks. Simply transfer it to a serving platter and garnish with a few extra fresh cranberries for a festive look. For busy weeknights or smaller households, serve it straight from the pan for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort.

Meal-preppers will appreciate how easily this Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake reheats for lunches throughout the week. Portion it into containers with greens or quinoa, and you’re set with wholesome meals that still taste like a One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner. Whether plated for guests or served family-style, this dish fits any occasion—from cozy evenings to casual Friendsgiving gatherings.

Storage, Reheating, and Flavor Variations for Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake

Leftovers are often the best part of any Thanksgiving Dinner Chicken recipe, and this one is no exception. After cooling, store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–12 minutes until warmed through. The foil helps retain moisture. For faster reheating, microwave in one-minute intervals, stirring halfway.

To freeze, remove any bones, place into freezer-safe bags, and store up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating. The flavors deepen over time, making the bake even more delicious after resting a day or two.

Swap the protein: Use leftover turkey for an effortless Thanksgiving Dinner Chicken twist.
Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts before baking.
Boost sweetness: Drizzle a maple-balsamic glaze during the final five minutes.
Change the veggies: Replace sweet potatoes with butternut squash or add Brussels sprouts for seasonal Fall Meal Ideas for a Crowd.

This adaptable recipe belongs among your favorite Easy Autumn Dinner Recipes. In every variation, the Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake keeps its signature balance of savory, sweet, and tangy. Prepare it ahead, customize it as you like, and let each bite bring the warmth and aroma of fall gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake

Can I make this Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the ingredients a few hours before baking, cover, and refrigerate. Rest at room temperature 15 minutes before roasting.

What other vegetables go well with this recipe?
Add Brussels sprouts, carrots, or squash for extra fall flavor. They hold up beautifully and soak up the herb-infused juices for the perfect One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner.

How do I keep the chicken juicy in a one pan meal?
Dry the chicken before seasoning, drizzle with oil, and bake at 400°F for even cooking. Check boneless pieces early to avoid overcooking.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely. Use two sheet pans and rotate halfway for even roasting. You’ll have a flawless Thanksgiving Sheet Pan Meal that feeds everyone with ease.

Bringing Fall Comfort to Your Table

The Sweet Potato Cranberry Chicken Bake – Easy One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner delivers all the cozy flavors of the season in one simple dish. With juicy chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, and tangy cranberries, this Thanksgiving Dinner Chicken proves that holiday comfort doesn’t require hours of cooking. Whether enjoyed at a family feast, Friendsgiving, or quiet evening at home, it offers inviting warmth, color, and flavor. Try this heartwarming One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner and let every bite remind you of autumn’s simple joys.