Description
This Perfect Roast Chicken and Veggies recipe delivers a simple yet delicious one-pan meal featuring a whole roasted chicken infused with aromatic seasonings and accompanied by tender baby potatoes, red onions, and garlic. The chicken roasts to juicy perfection with a crispy, golden brown skin, making it an ideal comforting dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 whole chicken (5 pounds)
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed fennel
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
For the Vegetables
- 10 baby potatoes
- 1 large red onion, cut into 8 wedges
- 6 cloves garlic, skin removed
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- Additional olive oil for drizzling
- Pinch of salt for veggies
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even roasting of the chicken and vegetables.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the whole chicken breast side up in the center of a large roasting pan for balanced cooking.
- Oil the Chicken: Coat all sides of the chicken evenly with olive oil to help crisp the skin and adhere the seasonings.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, mix sea salt, black pepper, crushed fennel, and crushed red pepper. Generously sprinkle this seasoning blend over every side of the chicken for full flavor.
- Arrange Vegetables: Fill the space around the chicken with baby potatoes, red onion wedges, and peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle the veggies with olive oil and a pinch of salt, then scatter fresh thyme on top to add aromatic notes.
- Roast Chicken and Veggies: Place the pan on the center rack and bake for about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Occasionally baste the chicken with pan juices to retain moisture. Roast until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
- Broil for Crispy Skin: Increase oven temperature to broil and cook the chicken for 5 to 10 minutes until the skin turns crispy and dark golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the pan from the oven. Transfer the vegetables to a bowl. Slice the chicken and serve it hot alongside the roasted vegetables, enjoying a flavorful and wholesome meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Basting the chicken occasionally helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Broil carefully and watch the chicken so the skin crisps without burning.
- Fresh thyme enhances flavor, but you can substitute with rosemary or sage if preferred.