Whole chicken with baked potatoes

Whole chicken with oven-baked potatoes: a simple and delicious recipe

Whole chicken with oven-baked potatoes is a classic recipe loved by everyone, exuding family and comfort aromas. It is ideal for weekend meals or special occasions, offering a dish that not only looks good but also has an unforgettable taste. Get ready for a culinary journey that will take you through the flavors of fresh rosemary and succulent chicken.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-60 minutes
Total time: 55-75 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- 2 teaspoons chicken seasoning mix (sea salt, whole and ground pepper, basil, rosemary)
- 100 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 500 g potatoes (choose new potatoes for better texture)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a few tablespoons of water or white wine

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

1. Wash the chicken: Start by washing the chicken thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any feather remnants, then let it drain.

2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on their size. I recommend cutting them in a rustic style for a crispy texture.

Step 2: Marinating the chicken

3. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, add the olive oil, dried rosemary, chicken seasoning mix, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.

4. Coat the chicken: Rub the chicken with this marinade all over, including inside. A thorough marination will ensure the flavors penetrate the meat.

5. Let the chicken chill in the fridge: Ideally, you should let the chicken covered in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight. This step is not mandatory, but it will give you a much juicier and flavorful meat.

Step 3: Preparing for the oven

6. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C. A proper temperature is essential for achieving a golden-brown chicken and crispy potatoes.

7. Prepare the baking tray: In a large tray, place the chicken in the center. Toss the potatoes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then arrange them around the chicken.

8. Add liquid: Optionally, you can add a few tablespoons of water or white wine to the tray to create a delicious sauce that will seep into the meat.

Step 4: Baking

9. Bake the chicken: Place the tray in the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 40-60 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy. Do a test: if the juices running from the chicken are clear, then it is done.

10. Baste the meat: Occasionally, open the oven and pour a few tablespoons of the sauce formed in the tray over the chicken. This will prevent the meat from drying out and help enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Serving

11. Finishing: Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.

12. Serve: Place the chicken on a platter and garnish with fresh green salad leaves. You can also add a few slices of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips

- Choosing the chicken: Opt for high-quality chicken, preferably free-range, to ensure excellent taste.
- Recipe variations: You can experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or sage, to modify the dish's flavors. You can also add vegetables like carrots or onions for extra flavor.
- The perfect dessert: After a hearty meal, I recommend a simple dessert, such as a fresh fruit sorbet or an apple tart, which will perfectly complete the experience.

Nutritional information

This dish is rich in protein due to the chicken, while the potatoes provide complex carbohydrates and fiber. Serving a portion of 150 g of chicken with 100 g of potatoes gives you a nutritious dish with approximately 400-500 calories. It is a healthy and balanced meal, ideal for energizing your day.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen chicken?: Yes, but make sure the chicken is completely thawed before marinating and cooking.
- How can I tell if the chicken is cooked?: Check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should be 75°C at the thickest part. If you don't have a cooking thermometer, ensure the juices run clear when cut.
- What wine pairs well with this dish?: A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly with the flavors of chicken and rosemary.

This whole chicken with oven-baked potatoes recipe is not only a delicious dish but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Try it and enjoy every bite!