Roast chicken

Delicious Baked Chicken Recipe with Oregano and Polenta

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love the aroma of perfectly roasted chicken, golden brown with crispy skin and juicy inside? This simple and quick baked chicken recipe with oregano will transport you to a world of delicious flavors and culinary comfort. Plus, it pairs perfectly with polenta and garlic sauce, a combination that will not only delight your taste buds but also become a topic of conversation at the family table.

Brief history of the recipe
Baked chicken has deep roots in culinary tradition, appearing in various forms in many cultures. Whether prepared with herbs, vegetables, or sauces, baked chicken has always been a hearty dish, perfect for family meals. The use of olive oil and spices adds flavor, and the baking method ensures an even result and a unique texture.

Necessary ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of dried oregano
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup of water (for the tray)

For serving:
- Polenta (approximately 250 g cornmeal)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (for the sauce)
- Salt (for the polenta)

Preparing the baked chicken
1. Cleaning and preparing the chicken: Start by cleaning the chicken, removing any leftover feathers or organs. Rinse it well under cold running water and pat it dry with a kitchen towel. This step is essential to ensure proper and hygienic preparation.

2. Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken on a cutting board and, using your hands, rub the spice mixture both on the outside and inside of the chicken. Be sure to pay special attention to the meatier areas to ensure all flavors infuse into the meat.

3. Adding oil: Drizzle the chicken with a few drops of olive oil, ensuring it is evenly coated. The oil not only helps brown the chicken but also keeps it juicy.

4. Preparing the tray: Place the chicken in a baking tray. Add the cup of water to the tray, as this will create steam, keeping the meat juicy during baking.

5. Baking the chicken: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray with the chicken in the oven and let it bake for about 1 hour. Occasionally, open the oven and baste the chicken with the juices accumulated in the tray. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust and tender meat.

6. Checking doneness: The chicken is ready when the skin turns golden brown and crispy, and the juices that run from the meat are clear. A kitchen thermometer can be used to check the internal temperature, which should be 75°C.

7. Serving: Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting it into pieces. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat. Serve it alongside warm polenta and a garlic sauce made from crushed garlic mixed with salt and water.

Useful tips
- Fresh herb option: If you have access to fresh herbs, feel free to use fresh oregano or even rosemary for an even more intense flavor.
- Polenta: To prepare perfect polenta, bring salted water to a boil, and when it boils, add the cornmeal in a rain, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Garlic sauce: Add a drop of olive oil and a little lemon juice to the sauce for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional information
This baked chicken recipe is a source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals. One serving contains approximately 450 calories, depending on the cooking method and the amount of oil used.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen chicken? It is recommended to use fresh chicken, but if you have frozen chicken, make sure it is completely thawed before cooking.
- What other side dishes go well? You can serve the chicken with steamed vegetables or baked potatoes for an even more varied meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get cooking! Baked chicken with oregano will surely become a favorite in your kitchen, providing you not only with a delicious dish but also with pleasant meal memories with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!