Oven-roasted chicken with rosemary, balsamic vinegar, and red onion

Delicious Oven-Roasted Chicken Recipe with Rosemary, Balsamic Vinegar, and Red Onion

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Of course, oven-roasted chicken is a classic dish, but this recipe adds a touch of innovation with the combination of fresh rosemary, balsamic vinegar, and red onion. It is a perfect meal for a family dinner or a special occasion, and its enticing flavors will turn every meal into a feast.

Chicken, a versatile ingredient, has been enjoyed for generations, and when roasted, it becomes juicy and full of flavor. The combination of rosemary and balsamic vinegar not only enhances the taste but also adds a sophisticated note to this dish. The red onion, roasted alongside the chicken, becomes sweet and caramelized, perfectly complementing this dish.

Ingredients:

- 1 chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 medium or large red onions (whole, but peeled)
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey

Step 1: Preparing the oven and the chicken

Start by preheating the oven to 190°C. This is the perfect time to prepare the chicken. Take it and ensure it is clean, then, using your fingers, gently lift the skin on the chicken breast. In this space, carefully sprinkle one tablespoon of fresh rosemary leaves. This method will help the flavors penetrate the meat, giving it an intense and aromatic taste.

Step 2: Seasoning

After adding the rosemary, season the chicken both inside and out with salt and freshly ground pepper. These simple seasonings will highlight the chicken's flavor and add a touch of savoriness.

Step 3: Preparing the baking tray

Place the chicken in a deep baking tray. In each corner of the tray, place a red onion, which will add extra flavor and become sweet and caramelized during baking. After placing the onions, drizzle everything with the 3 tablespoons of olive oil. The oil will help brown the chicken and keep the meat juicy.

Step 4: First baking phase

Put the tray in the preheated oven and let the chicken bake for 30 minutes. This will allow the skin to become crispy and will start releasing delicious juices into the tray.

Step 5: Preparing the sauce

Meanwhile, while the chicken is baking, prepare the balsamic vinegar sauce. In a small bowl, mix the 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon of honey. This will add a sweet and tangy note to the chicken, enriching the overall flavor.

Step 6: Glazing the chicken

After 30 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and drizzle the chicken with the balsamic vinegar and honey mixture. This glaze will not only give a shiny appearance but will also intensify the flavors. Put the chicken back in the oven for another 30 minutes.

Step 7: Final baking of the onions

After the additional 30 minutes, remove the chicken from the tray and set it aside. Then, continue baking the onions for another 20 minutes until they become soft and caramelized. These will serve as the perfect side for your chicken.

Step 8: Serving

Once all the ingredients are ready, place the chicken on a platter and pour the remaining sauce from the tray over it. Arrange the caramelized onions alongside the chicken and enjoy this delicious dish alongside a fresh green salad or roasted potatoes.

Practical tips:

- You can use dried rosemary instead of fresh, but the flavor will be more intense if you use fresh rosemary.
- If you like spicy flavors, add a few chili flakes to the balsamic vinegar sauce for an extra kick.
- The chicken can be marinated a few hours before cooking for an even deeper flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

This oven-roasted chicken recipe is an excellent source of protein, essential for a healthy diet. Olive oil adds healthy fats, and red onion is rich in antioxidants, contributing to better cardiovascular health. Balsamic vinegar also has digestive benefits and can help maintain blood sugar levels, while honey adds a natural touch of sweetness.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with duck or turkey as well. The baking time will vary, so make sure to check the internal temperature of the meat.

2. How can I store leftover chicken?
Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure it is covered to maintain its juiciness.

3. What other sides can be paired with it?
This recipe pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad, which will add a touch of freshness.

In conclusion, oven-roasted chicken with rosemary, balsamic vinegar, and red onion is not just a simple recipe to prepare, but also a culinary experience that will delight the taste buds. Try this recipe at home and enjoy every bite!