Oven-baked chicken with rosemary, balsamic vinegar, and red onion

Oven Roasted Chicken with Rosemary, Balsamic Vinegar, and Red Onion

If you're looking for a simple yet spectacular recipe to impress family and friends, you've come to the right place! This oven-roasted chicken recipe with rosemary, balsamic vinegar, and red onion combines intense flavors and is easy to prepare. The total preparation time is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, yielding 4 delicious servings.

A Brief Story About the Recipe

Preparing oven-roasted chicken is one of the most traditional cooking methods, cherished over time for its unmistakable aroma and juicy texture. Adding rosemary, an aromatic herb used since ancient times, gives the dish not only a unique taste but also a touch of elegance. The balsamic vinegar, with its distinct sweetness, provides a pleasant contrast to the savory chicken, while the caramelized red onion perfectly complements this culinary picture.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 medium or large whole red onions, peeled
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste

Nutritional Details

This chicken recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while rosemary and red onion add vitamins and antioxidants. One serving contains approximately 400 calories, making it a decent choice for a family meal.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 60 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Step by Step for a Perfect Result

1. Preparing the Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. This will ensure even cooking and a crispy crust on the chicken.

2. Preparing the Chicken: Take the chicken and gently loosen the skin from the breast with your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Sprinkle a tablespoon of fresh rosemary leaves between the skin and the meat. This trick will allow the flavors to penetrate better into the meat.

3. Seasoning: Season the chicken both inside and out with salt and pepper. Make sure to use sea salt or kosher salt for a more intense flavor.

4. Placing in the Pan: Place the chicken in a large baking dish and arrange the peeled red onions in each corner of the dish. The onion will add flavor during baking and will caramelize, becoming delicious.

5. Drizzling with Oil: Drizzle everything with the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring that the chicken and onions are well coated. The oil will help achieve a crispy crust.

6. First Baking Cycle: Place the dish in the oven for the first 30 minutes. This is the ideal time to start smelling the enticing aromas developing.

7. Preparing the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the balsamic vinegar with the honey. This mixture will create a delicious sauce that will glaze the chicken and enhance the flavors.

8. Glazing the Chicken: After 30 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle it with the balsamic vinegar and honey mixture. Put it back in the oven for another 30 minutes.

9. Finalizing the Baking: After the 30 minutes, remove the chicken from the dish and set it aside. Give the onions another 20 minutes in the oven to become tender and caramelized.

10. Serving: Serve the chicken drizzled with the delicious sauce obtained during baking, alongside the caramelized onion. A side of steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes will perfectly complement this main dish.

Useful Tips

- If you want to add extra flavor, you can also add a few slices of lemon inside the chicken or drizzle the chicken with a little white wine before putting it in the oven.
- Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.
- If you prefer the chicken to be spicier, you can add a few chili flakes to the vinegar and honey mixture.

Possible Variations

This recipe is extremely versatile. You can substitute rosemary with other herbs like thyme or oregano, and honey can be replaced with maple syrup for a distinct note. You can also add various vegetables to the dish, such as carrots or potatoes, which will roast alongside the chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use thawed chicken? Yes, it's ideal to use fresh chicken, but you can also use thawed chicken, ensuring it is completely defrosted before preparation.

2. How do I know if the chicken is cooked? Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a kitchen thermometer. It should be 75 degrees Celsius at the thickest part of the breast.

3. Can I prepare the chicken in advance? Yes, you can marinate the chicken with the spices and sauce a day in advance, letting it absorb the flavors in the fridge.

Delicious Pairings

This oven-roasted chicken is perfect served with a dry white wine that complements the flavors of the main dish. Additionally, a fresh green salad or a rice pilaf will make a balanced and tasty meal.

I hope this recipe for oven-roasted chicken with rosemary, balsamic vinegar, and red onion inspires you to cook and enjoy delicious moments with your loved ones! Bon appétit!