Roast chicken

Oven-roasted chicken with polenta and garlic sauce

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The history of oven-roasted chicken is rich in tradition, being a dish loved by generations. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the natural flavors of chicken with spices that enhance its taste, making it an excellent meal for any occasion. Served with warm polenta and garlic sauce, this dish becomes a true feast for the taste buds.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cleaned and washed (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup of water (approximately 250 ml)

Preparing the oven-roasted chicken:

1. Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This temperature will help the chicken brown evenly and become crispy on the outside.

2. After preparing the chicken, make sure it is well cleaned and washed. This step is essential for a healthy and tasty dish.

3. In a bowl, mix the salt, pepper, and oregano. Use a generous amount of spices, as they will add depth and flavor to the chicken.

4. Season the chicken inside and out with the spice mixture. Don't forget to rub the spices well so that the chicken is evenly flavored.

5. Drizzle the chicken with a few drops of olive oil. This will help achieve a crispy and golden crust during baking.

6. In a baking tray, add the cup of water. The water will create steam during baking, helping to keep the meat juicy.

7. Place the chicken in the tray, breast side up, and put it in the oven. Bake for about 1 hour, basting it occasionally with the juices from the tray. This step is important to prevent the meat from drying out and to intensify the flavors.

8. Check the chicken after 45 minutes. If the skin has browned nicely but is not yet done, you can cover the tray with aluminum foil to avoid burning. Continue baking until it is well-cooked and browned on all sides.

9. Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.

10. Cut the chicken into pieces and serve it alongside warm polenta, prepared with water and salt, and garlic sauce, made from crushed garlic and water or oil. This aromatic sauce will add an extra layer of flavor to your dish.

Serving suggestions:
For a complete meal, you can add a fresh vegetable salad or pickles alongside your oven-roasted chicken. A salad of tomatoes and cucumbers with olive oil and balsamic vinegar will be an excellent choice. If you want to indulge, a dry white wine will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Vegetarian option:
If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with large mushrooms stuffed with a mixture of cheese and herbs, baked in the oven.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can a frozen chicken be used?
Yes, make sure it is completely thawed before seasoning and baking.

2. Can I use other spices?
Absolutely! You can add garlic powder, paprika, or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.

3. How can I tell when the chicken is cooked?
The best method is to use a kitchen thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should be 75 degrees Celsius.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health, and garlic is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Calories:
A serving of oven-roasted chicken (approximately 200 g) contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the preparation method and ingredients used.

And remember, every dish has a story. Keep the tradition alive and share this oven-roasted chicken with your loved ones! Surely, the meal will become an unforgettable moment. Enjoy your meal!