Roast chicken

Delicious Oven-Baked Chicken Recipe: A Perfect Combination of Flavors and Textures

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Welcome to the savory world of cooking! Today, I present to you a classic oven-baked chicken recipe that will turn an ordinary meal into an unforgettable feast. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor and juiciness, perfect for any occasion. Additionally, it is a wonderful opportunity to experiment with fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs.

The history of oven-baked chicken is ancient, being a popular dish in many cultures. It symbolizes conviviality, often served at family meals or celebrations. Whether it's a weekend dinner or a special celebration, this oven-baked chicken is sure to impress all your guests.

Ingredients

- 1 chicken (approximately 2 kg)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of vegetable seasoning (or vegetable flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 4-5 garlic cloves, pressed
- 1 bunch of fresh tarragon, finely chopped
- 100 g butter or margarine, at room temperature
- 1 carrot, boiled and finely chopped
- 1 parsnip, boiled and finely chopped
- Water (for the baking tray)

Step by Step: Preparing the Oven-Baked Chicken

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken under cold running water. Make sure to remove any leftover feathers or internal organs. Dry it well with paper towels, then generously rub it with salt, both inside and out. This step is essential to ensure a rich flavor and to help form a crispy crust.

2. Preparing the butter mixture: In a bowl, mix the butter (or margarine) with the chopped parsley, tarragon, vegetable seasoning, pepper, and pressed garlic. This aromatic paste will add an extra layer of flavor to your chicken. If you enjoy more intense flavors, feel free to add a bit of sweet or spicy paprika.

3. Rubbing the chicken: Using a spatula or simply your hands, rub the chicken with the butter mixture both inside and out. Make sure to get into all the corners so that every bite is full of flavor.

4. Stuffing the chicken: If you wish, stuff the chicken with the boiled and finely chopped carrot and parsnip. This will not only add flavor but also keep the meat juicy during baking.

5. Preparing for the oven: Place the chicken on a grill or in a baking tray, breast side up. Under the chicken, place a tray with water to prevent the meat from drying out. Cover everything with aluminum foil to retain moisture.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the covered chicken in the oven for about 1 hour. This step will allow the chicken to cook evenly and become tender.

7. Final browning: After 1 hour, remove the aluminum foil and let the chicken brown for 15-20 minutes, or until the skin turns golden and crispy. This is the perfect moment to admire its beauty and aroma!

8. Serving: Take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier chicken. You can serve this dish alongside a side of steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a truly special meal, you can accompany the chicken with a dry white wine or a fresh lemonade, which will perfectly complement the flavors. You can also experiment with different aromatic herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to change the flavor profile of the dish.

If you enjoy contrasts, add a few slices of lemon to the tray, which will bring an extra acidity and a fresh taste. Instead of carrot and parsnip, you can try stuffing the chicken with apples or peaches for a sweet note that will pleasantly surprise the taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions

- What is the best way to check if the chicken is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 75°C. If you don't have a thermometer, make sure the juices running from the meat are clear, not pink.

- Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead, cover it with foil, and leave it in the refrigerator. When you're ready, let it come to room temperature before baking.

- How can I store leftover chicken?
Cooked chicken stores well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken is an excellent source of protein, making it a healthy choice for everyday meals. Additionally, the aromatic herbs used in this recipe not only enhance the flavor but also provide nutritional benefits. Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while tarragon has antioxidant properties.

Each serving of oven-baked chicken contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of butter used. It can be a delicious main dish but also a healthy option, as long as it is consumed in moderation.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! This oven-baked chicken recipe is simple yet full of flavor, and it can quickly become a family favorite. I encourage you to experiment and bring your own variations, transforming this recipe into a personalized dish that reflects your culinary style. Enjoy your meal!