Oven-roasted chicken with thyme and basil

Oven-Roasted Chicken with Thyme and Basil

Dear cooking enthusiasts, today I invite you to enjoy a traditional recipe that will fill our home with delicious aromas and delight our taste buds. I will prepare a home-raised oven chicken, fragrant, tender, and perfect to be savored with loved ones. This simple yet flavorful recipe will turn any meal into a true culinary celebration.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the chicken:
- 1 medium-sized chicken (about 3.3 lbs)
- 1 lemon
- 1 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup water

For the side:
- 2.2 lbs potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the lemon well. If you have organic lemon, there's no need to worry, but if not, use a wire sponge to remove any impurities. This will add a note of freshness to the chicken and enhance the flavor.

2. Cleaning the vegetables: Peel the onion and garlic, then wash and cut them into quarters. These will add flavor and moisture to the dish.

3. Mixing the spices: In a small bowl, mix the paprika, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture will become a true secret of flavors, so make sure to combine them well!

4. Preparing the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F. This step is essential for achieving a tender and well-cooked chicken.

5. Stuffing the chicken: Poke the lemon in several places with a toothpick to allow the juice to escape during baking. Then, place the whole lemon inside the chicken along with the quartered onion and garlic.

6. Tying the chicken: Use kitchen twine to tie the chicken's legs. This will not only help maintain its shape but also prevent moisture from escaping.

7. Seasoning the chicken: Rub the chicken all over with the spice mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. This will make every bite full of flavor.

8. Placing the chicken in the pan: Place the chicken in the prepared pan, add water, and cover with aluminum foil or a lid. The covering will help retain moisture, making the chicken more tender.

9. Initial baking: Place the pan in the oven and let the chicken bake for 1 hour. During this time, all the flavors will combine, and the meat will be well-cooked.

10. Final baking: After an hour, remove the foil and let the chicken bake for another 30 minutes. During this time, it is important to baste the chicken occasionally with the juices from the pan. This will help achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

Crispy Potato Side:

1. Boiling the potatoes: Cut the potatoes into quarters and boil them in salted water for 10 minutes. This will ensure they brown more easily in the oven.

2. Preparing the spices for the potatoes: In a larger bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will add a crunchy and savory flavor to the potatoes.

3. Potato pan: After draining the potatoes, drizzle them with olive oil and toss them in the spice mixture. Place them in a pan and put them in the preheated oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.

4. Adding roasted peppers: If you want to add more color and flavor, add some roasted peppers alongside the chicken in the last 20 minutes of baking.

Serving:

Serve the aromatic chicken alongside the crispy potatoes and roasted peppers. Give it a squeeze of fresh lemon on top for an even more intense flavor. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the chicken: If you have access to free-range chicken, it is ideal as the meat is more tender and flavorful. If using store-bought chicken, choose a young one for the best results.

- Variations: You can experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to achieve different flavors. You can also add vegetables like carrots or zucchini to the pan for an even heartier dish.

- Recommended drinks: This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or fresh lemonade that complements the flavors of the chicken.

Nutritional Benefits:

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and roasting it with aromatic herbs gives you a healthy and tasty dish. Potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates, and the spices add both flavor and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can also use turkey or rabbit, adjusting the baking times according to the type of meat.

2. How can I make the chicken spicier? Add a bit of chili pepper to the spice mixture or sprinkle chili flakes on the chicken before baking.

3. Can I prepare the recipe in advance? Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and keep it in the fridge until it's time to cook.

So, dear ones, don't waste any more time and try this recipe for oven-roasted chicken with thyme and basil. I promise it will quickly become your family's favorite! Enjoy your meal!