Rosemary Chicken Recipe: A Simple & Flavorful Dish
Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further than this Rosemary Chicken Recipe. This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike, delivering a flavorful and aromatic dish that will impress your family and friends. We'll cover everything from preparation to cooking tips, ensuring your rosemary chicken turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a quick meal. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) - You can also use chicken pieces, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil - For a richer flavor, consider using extra virgin olive oil.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped - Fresh rosemary offers the best flavor, but dried rosemary can be substituted (use about 1 teaspoon).
- 1 teaspoon salt - Adjust to your taste preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - Freshly ground pepper enhances the flavor.
- 1 lemon, quartered - Adds a bright citrusy note.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced - For an extra layer of flavor.
- Optional: 1 medium onion, quartered - Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Roasting to Perfection
This recipe utilizes the simple yet effective method of roasting, allowing the chicken to cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Follow these steps for perfectly roasted rosemary chicken:
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks thoroughly and evenly.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
- Combine seasonings: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- Season the chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin of the breast. Don't forget to season the cavity!
Roasting:
- Stuff the cavity (optional): Place the lemon quarters and onion quarters (if using) inside the chicken cavity.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan: Ensure the chicken is placed breast-side up.
- Roast: Roast the chicken for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space around the chicken for even browning.
- Baste the chicken: For extra flavor and moisture, baste the chicken with the pan juices every 20 minutes during roasting.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. This is the most reliable method for avoiding undercooked chicken.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer.
Serving Suggestions:
This rosemary chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it with:
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted potatoes, carrots, and asparagus pair perfectly with the rosemary chicken.
- Rice or couscous: A simple side of rice or couscous complements the flavor of the chicken.
- Salad: A fresh green salad adds a light and refreshing element to the meal.
This Rosemary Chicken Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!
