Roast chicken

Recipe: Oven-Roasted Chicken with Spices

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t love the enticing aroma of tender, well-seasoned chicken roasted in the oven? This oven-roasted chicken recipe with spices is simple yet full of flavor, making it ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion. Moreover, it’s a great way to bring natural and healthy ingredients to the table.

The history of oven-roasted chicken is one of tradition, prepared by generations in various forms and with different spices. This recipe combines classic flavors with a touch of innovation, thanks to the homemade pepper paste that provides a unique and rich taste.

Ingredients:
- 1 large chicken (approximately 1.5-2 kg), cut in half or left whole, as preferred
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika (or spicy, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon homemade pepper paste (or store-bought)
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Water (enough to cover the chicken halfway)

Preparation Method:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and washing the chicken well. You can choose to leave it whole or cut it in half for even cooking. Make sure to remove any remaining feathers and internal organs.

2. Mixing the spices: In a large bowl, add salt, pepper, oregano, basil, thyme, parsley, paprika, pepper paste, and crushed garlic. Mix all the ingredients well to obtain a homogeneous paste.

3. Seasoning the chicken: Using a spatula or your hands (don’t forget to wash your hands afterward), rub the chicken with the spice mixture, ensuring it gets under the skin for an intense flavor.

4. Preparing for the oven: Place the chicken in a deep baking dish. Add water until it reaches halfway up the chicken to keep the meat juicy and create a delicious sauce during baking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish with the chicken in the oven and let it bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. You can check it occasionally, and if you notice that the chicken is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.

6. Serving: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting. You can serve it alongside delicious sides, such as baked potatoes or rice, and garlic sauce. A fresh salad would perfectly complete the meal.

Practical Tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance, leaving it in the fridge to absorb the spice flavors.
- Use a shallow baking dish to allow air circulation and achieve a crispy crust.
- Add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to the dish; they will cook in the chicken’s juices and become extremely flavorful.

Nutritional Benefits:
This oven-roasted chicken is an excellent source of protein, and the spices used not only add flavor but also health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken? It is recommended to use fresh chicken for the best results, but if using frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw it before preparing.
- What other sides can I try? You can replace rice or potatoes with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- How can I adapt the recipe for grilled chicken? Use the same marinade and cook the chicken on the grill, making sure to turn it occasionally for even cooking.

Possible Variations:
- You can experiment with different types of pepper paste, such as spicy or smoked, to add another level of flavor complexity.
- Replace garlic with green onions or add dill to change the flavor profile.

This oven-roasted chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to adapt it according to your preferences. Regardless of your choice of sides or the flavors you use, you will surely create a dish that will impress family and friends. Cook with love and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!