Oven-Baked Aromatic Chicken & Ginger Garlic Rice

Oven-roasted aromatic chicken and ginger garlic rice

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to our kitchen, where today we will enjoy a delicious dish, full of flavors and textures, that will transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. The oven-roasted aromatic chicken, served alongside ginger garlic rice, will bring not only flavor but also a touch of refinement to your table.

The history of this dish is linked to culinary traditions that combine simple yet characterful ingredients. Chicken, an accessible and versatile ingredient, has been cooked in countless ways throughout history, bringing families and friends together at the table. Today, we will explore an easy-to-make recipe, but with a remarkable taste impact.

Ingredients

For the chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2 apples (preferably tart)
- ½ lemon
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 pinch of chili (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 pinch of thyme
- 1 pinch of cumin
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- ½ teaspoon basil
- ½ teaspoon chives (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 25 g butter
- 100 mL white wine
- salt and pepper to taste

For the rice:
- 1 cup rice
- 3 cups broth/water (one cup of broth and two cups of water or to taste)
- 1 small onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon El Ras Hanout spice (optional, to enhance flavors)
- ½ bunch dill (optional, for extra freshness)
- salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the chicken

1. Cleaning the chicken: Start by cleaning the chicken. Remove any feather remnants and rinse it well, then dry it with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving a crispy skin at the end.

2. Preparing the chicken: Split the chicken in half lengthwise so that it cooks evenly. Squeeze the juice from ½ lemon over the meat, adding a touch of acidity that will help enhance the flavors.

3. Garlic insertion: Use a sharp knife to make small incisions in the chicken's skin. In these incisions, insert a clove of garlic, to infuse the meat with delicious flavors.

4. Seasoning: In a bowl, combine all the spices (chili, thyme, cumin, rosemary, basil) with 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well and use a brush to coat the chicken on all sides. This mixture will add a flavorful and delicious crust.

5. Preparing the tray: Cut the apples into small cubes and place them on the bottom of a baking tray. These will add sweetness and moisture to the chicken during baking, making it juicier.

6. Cooking the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken over the apples and add a few pieces of butter on top for a rich taste. Pour the white wine into the tray, which will create a delicious sauce for the chicken to simmer in.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and bake the chicken for about 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the juices run clear. It is important to check the chicken from time to time to ensure it does not dry out.

Preparing the ginger garlic rice

1. Sautéing the ingredients: In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, then add the ginger and finely chopped onion. Sauté everything for 1-2 minutes until the onion becomes glassy.

2. Cooking the rice: Add the washed rice to the skillet and mix it well with the garlic and ginger so that the flavors blend. Pour in the hot broth or water and season with salt. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the rice absorbs the liquid.

3. Finishing: Turn off the heat and add the chopped dill. Cover the skillet with a towel and let the rice sit for 15-20 minutes. This step will allow the rice to absorb the last flavors and become fluffy.

Serving

To serve this dish, place a portion of rice on a plate and top it with a quarter of the aromatic chicken. You can add a few apple cubes for a contrast of texture and flavors. A fresh green salad and a glass of white wine pair perfectly with this meal.

Practical tips

- If you want an even more aromatic chicken, let it marinate in the spices for 2-3 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.
- You can add seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the baking tray for an even richer dish.
- Instead of rice, you can use couscous or quinoa for a healthier option.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I store leftovers? Chicken leftovers store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
2. Can I use boneless chicken? Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but the cooking time will be considerably reduced.
3. What can I do with the leftover sauce from the tray? The sauce can be used as a base for a soup or sauce for pasta.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious! Chicken provides an excellent source of protein, while rice is a good source of carbohydrates. Ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

In conclusion, preparing the oven-roasted aromatic chicken and ginger garlic rice is not just a culinary activity, but also a way to bring joy and warmth into your home. I invite you to try this recipe, enjoy every bite, and share the experience with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!