Chicken steak with lemon and roasted garlic potatoes

Lemon chicken roast with garlic baked potatoes is a recipe that exudes warmth, comfort, and the joy of sharing special moments with loved ones. It is a dish that brings back childhood memories, when the aroma of roasted chicken filled our home and made us feel at home. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing this delicious recipe, which will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.5-2 kg)
- 100 g melted butter
- 1 large lemon
- Coarse salt (or seasoning, to taste)
- Sweet paprika (optional)
- 6-7 large potatoes
- 1 head of garlic
- Dried rosemary
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

A Bit of History:
Chicken dishes have a long history, being an integral part of many culinary cultures. Chicken is often chosen for its versatility, and the combination with lemon provides a note of freshness and acidity that enhances the flavors. Additionally, garlic baked potatoes are a classic side dish, loved by many for their crispy texture and intense flavor.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the chicken:
Start by washing the chicken well under cold water, ensuring you remove any impurities. Use a paper towel to dry it thoroughly. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust when baking.

2. Seasoning:
In a bowl, melt the butter in a double boiler or microwave. Brush the chicken with the melted butter, making sure it seeps under the skin. Sprinkle coarse salt and sweet paprika on all sides, including inside the chicken, to intensify the flavor.

3. Adding the lemon:
Cut the lemon into slices and place them inside the chicken. Its aroma will infuse the meat during baking, bringing a note of freshness.

4. Preparing for the oven:
Place the chicken in a baking dish or, if you prefer, in a covered pot (this will help retain moisture and prevent the chicken from burning on top). Add 3-4 tablespoons of water to the dish to create steam during baking.

5. Baking the chicken:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Let the chicken bake for about 1 hour. Check with a fork if it is cooked through (the juices should run clear, with no traces of blood). Ten minutes before it’s done, remove the lid to allow the chicken to brown nicely.

6. Preparing the potatoes:
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them in an accordion shape, being careful not to cut all the way through so they remain intact at the base. In each slice, insert a slice of garlic. This trick will infuse the potatoes with garlic flavor, making them tastier.

7. Seasoning the potatoes:
Sprinkle salt and dried rosemary over the potatoes, then wrap them in foil to protect them during baking. This will help retain moisture and ensure even cooking.

8. Baking the potatoes:
Place the potatoes in the oven alongside the chicken and let them bake for 30 minutes. At the end, remove the foil and let them brown for a few minutes.

9. Serving:
Once the chicken is golden and the potatoes are crispy, take them out of the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving. Serve the lemon chicken alongside the baked potatoes, perhaps with a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Practical Tips:
- Choose a quality chicken, preferably from a local farmer, for richer flavor.
- If you want an extra flavor boost, add some fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, under the chicken skin.
- The potatoes can be replaced with carrots, zucchini, or other seasonal vegetables.
- You can add a yogurt sauce with garlic and dill to complement the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use thawed chicken? Yes, make sure it is completely thawed before cooking.
- How do I know if the chicken is cooked? The juices should run clear, and the internal temperature of the chicken should be 75°C.
- Is this recipe suitable for holiday meals? Absolutely! It’s an impressive dish and perfect for sharing with family.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 40 g
- Fat: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g

Lemon chicken roast with garlic baked potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings us together. So let’s enjoy every bite and create unforgettable memories around the table! Enjoy your meal!