Chicken with potatoes in the oven

Roasted Chicken with Potatoes – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

When you crave a meal that combines tradition with flavor, roasted chicken with potatoes is the perfect choice. This recipe will remind you of family gatherings, where flavors intertwine and create unforgettable memories. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 4-5 large potatoes
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1-2 carrots
- 1 small piece of celery
- 1 peeled tomato
- 1 head of garlic
- 50 g smoked bacon
- 1 glass of white wine (or water with a teaspoon of vinegar and 1 teaspoon of sugar)
- 20 ml oil
- A few sprigs of herbs (parsley, dill)
- Salt, pepper, paprika, thyme

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to dry it with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture. Generously season it with salt, pepper, and paprika all over and inside. These spices not only add flavor but also help create a delicious crust.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the potatoes and cut them into large pieces so they don’t break apart during baking. Cut the carrots and celery into similarly sized pieces, and slice the bell pepper into strips. The peeled tomato can be diced. Mix all the vegetables in a large bowl and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. Stuffing the chicken: Use the leftover carrot, bell pepper, and celery to stuff the chicken. Add a few cloves of garlic for extra flavor. This step not only enhances the taste of the meat but also provides moisture during baking.

4. Preparing the baking tray: In a large tray, place the prepared vegetables. They will act as a bed for the chicken, providing a flavorful base. Place the whole chicken on top of the vegetables.

5. Adding the final ingredients: Slice the smoked bacon thinly and place it on top of the chicken. This will add a smoky flavor and rich taste. Pour the oil over it and sprinkle thyme. Add 300 ml of water to the tray to maintain moisture.

6. Baking the chicken: Preheat the oven to 180°C (low heat) and place the tray in the oven. Bake the chicken for 60 minutes, basting it occasionally with the juices from the tray to prevent it from drying out. This trick will ensure a tender and juicy chicken.

7. Turning the chicken: After an hour, take the tray out and turn the chicken breast-side down. Add the wine (or the vinegar-water mixture) to the tray. This step will enhance the flavors and help caramelize the skin. Leave it in the oven for another 20 minutes.

8. Finishing the baking: Turn the chicken breast-side up again, increase the oven temperature to 200°C (high heat), and let it brown for 10 minutes. This is the perfect moment to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

9. Serving: Once the chicken is ready, carefully place it on a platter, alongside the potatoes and vegetables. Garnish with sliced red pepper, green salad leaves, garlic slices, and fresh parsley. Pour the sauce from the tray over it for an extra flavor boost.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the chicken: Opt for a quality chicken, preferably free-range. This will significantly influence the final taste of the dish.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or onion to diversify the flavors. Additionally, you can replace the wine with beer or use different spices like oregano or rosemary.
- Serving: This roasted chicken with potatoes pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a simple tzatziki sauce. A craft beer or a dry white wine can perfectly accompany the meal.

Nutritional information:

This roasted chicken with potatoes recipe is rich in protein and contains a variety of vitamins from the vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for a family meal. A serving has approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use thawed chicken?
Yes, make sure it is completely thawed before seasoning it.

2. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
You can prepare all the ingredients a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until baking.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a holiday dinner?
Absolutely! Roasted chicken with potatoes is an excellent choice for festive meals due to its appealing appearance and delicious taste.

Now that you have all the details, all that's left is to start cooking! I wish you a lot of appetite and enjoy every bite of this delicious recipe. Savor the moments spent in the kitchen and enjoy the flavor of roasted chicken with potatoes, a true feast for the soul!