Oven-baked chicken with garlic

Garlic Roasted Chicken – A Savory Recipe for Family Meals

Who doesn’t love the enticing aroma of roasted chicken, carefully cooked and bursting with flavors? The garlic roasted chicken recipe is one of those dishes that manages to gather the family around the table and create pleasant memories. This simple and delicious recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also transform an ordinary day into a culinary celebration.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Essential ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken (without breast)
- 2 heads of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of hot paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried marjoram
- 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil
- 100 ml white wine

A bit of history:
Roasted chicken is a classic dish found in many cultures, each with its own variation. Garlic, an essential ingredient, has been used for centuries not only for its unmistakable flavor but also for its nutritional benefits. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a true superfood.

Step by step to perfection:

1. Preparing the chicken:
Start by cleaning the chicken thoroughly. Remove any impurities and ensure it is dry. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust at the end. If you wish, you can rinse it under cold water, but make sure to dry it well with a paper towel.

2. Preparing the garlic paste:
Peel the two heads of garlic and place the cloves in a mortar. Add salt, pepper, hot paprika, and dried marjoram. Use the pestle to crush the ingredients until you obtain a smooth paste. This mixture will bring an intense flavor to your chicken.

3. Adding the oil:
Add a few drops of olive oil to the garlic paste, mixing well. The oil will help distribute the spices evenly over the chicken. Use a kitchen brush or your fingers to coat the chicken with this aromatic paste. Make sure to get inside the chicken as well to enhance the flavor.

4. Cooking the chicken:
In a roasting pan, add the white wine and the remaining olive oil. Place the chicken in the pan, breast side up. This will allow the juices to flow into the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful. Place the pan in the preheated oven at 180°C and let it bake for one and a half hours.

5. Basting the chicken:
From time to time (about every 20 minutes), open the oven and baste the chicken with the juices from the pan. This will help create a crispy crust and add flavor to the meat.

6. Checking for doneness:
At the end of the 90 minutes, check if the chicken is fully cooked. You can use a cooking thermometer; the internal temperature should be 75°C. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can check if the juices run clear when you pierce the chicken with a fork.

7. Serving:
Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy meat. You can serve the chicken with a side of green beans with sour cream or any other fresh salad you prefer.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add an even more interesting note, you can experiment with other spices like rosemary or thyme.
- A delicious option is to add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the pan, roasting them alongside the chicken to enrich the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. What type of white wine is recommended?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, is ideal for adding a note of acidity and freshness.

2. Can I use chicken with breast?
This recipe is recommended for a whole chicken, as the breast can become dry if overcooked. If you prefer, you can use only thighs or wings, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven or skillet to maintain the crispy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This garlic chicken recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and garlic adds antioxidants and healthy compounds that support the immune system. Olive oil is rich in essential fatty acids, contributing to a balanced diet.

So, don’t hesitate to start cooking! Garlic roasted chicken is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that will bring you joy and comfort. Enjoy your meal!