Oven-baked chicken with aromatic potatoes

Rooster in the oven with aromatic potatoes

In search of a delicious and comforting meal, the recipe for rooster in the oven with aromatic potatoes proves to be an excellent choice. This recipe will not only fill the house with enticing aromas but will also provide an unforgettable culinary experience. Here’s how to prepare this delicacy step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours
Baking time: 3 hours
Total: 5 hours
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 2 large legs of free-range rooster (or, if you prefer, you can use thighs)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 teaspoon red pepper paste (optional, for a more intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder with red pepper (for added flavor)
- 1 kg small, round potatoes (you can use new potatoes for a fresher taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons dried rosemary

Preparation:

1. Marinating the rooster: Start by preparing the rooster. If you have a large rooster, cut it into pieces, but for a more rustic presentation, you can leave the thighs whole. In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise, crushed garlic, red pepper paste, salt, pepper, and garlic powder with red pepper. This mixture will give the meat a rich and savory flavor. Coat each piece of rooster well with this mixture, ensuring it is evenly covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 2 hours. This step is essential to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

2. Preparing the potatoes: While the rooster is marinating, prepare the potatoes. Wash them well, and if they are smaller, you can leave them whole. If they are larger, cut them in half for even baking. In another bowl, season the potatoes with salt, pepper, olive oil, and dried rosemary. Mix well to ensure each potato is coated with spices. The rosemary will add an aromatic note that will perfectly complement the flavor of the meat.

3. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a large baking tray, place the marinated pieces of rooster and the seasoned potatoes. Arrange them so they have enough space to bake evenly. Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 1 hour. After an hour, remove the foil and continue baking for another 1-2 hours, until the meat is tender and browned, and the potatoes are golden and crispy.

4. Serving: When everything is ready, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the rooster alongside the seasoned potatoes, possibly with a fresh seasonal salad or grilled vegetables for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Helpful tips:
- If you prefer a spicier taste, add more red pepper paste or some chili flakes to the initial mixture.
- Make sure to let the meat marinate sufficiently. If time allows, you can leave the meat in the marinade overnight for an even more intense flavor.
- The potatoes can be replaced with other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, for a more colorful and healthy option.

Nutritional benefits:
The rooster is an excellent source of protein, and together with the potatoes, it provides essential carbohydrates and nutrients such as potassium and vitamin C. This recipe is ideal for a family meal, being not only filling but also full of flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of rooster? Yes, but the baking time will be shorter. Always check the internal temperature of the meat.
- How can I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or in a skillet to maintain the crispy texture.

Pair this dish with a bottle of dry white wine or a craft beer for an extra touch of flavor.

This recipe for rooster in the oven with aromatic potatoes is not just a meal, but a true culinary experience. So gather your family or friends and enjoy every bite of this delicacy! Whether you are an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, you will surely impress with this simple and tasty recipe.